Federal and state governments come together to rescue Bell Bay Aluminium smelter

Key points

• The Federal and Tasmanian governments have announced a five-year, 50:50 joint funding package worth $200 million for the Bell Bay Aluminium smelter. The funding will secure the plant's aluminium production and its 550 workers while a future funding strategy is developed.
• The smelter, owned by Rio Tinto, uses more than 25 per cent of Tasmania's electricity. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the investment supports workers, families and the region.
• Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff said the package gives certainty to local supply chain businesses.