Commenting on the latest record hike in beer tax, John Preston, CEO of the Brewers Association of Australia, said:
"Australia's tax on beer is going up yet again with today's increase being the largest in more than 30 years.
"Australians are taxed on beer more than almost any other nation. We have seen almost 20 increases in Australia's beer tax over the past decade alone.
"Brewers and pub and club operators were extremely disappointed the former Government did not deliver on a proposed reduction in beer tax at this year's March Budget.
"Sadly, we're now seeing the impact as pub patrons will soon be faced with the prospect of regularly paying around $15 for a pint at their local.
"For a small pub, club or other venue the latest tax hike will mean an increase of more than $2,700 a year in their tax bill – at a time when they are still struggling to deal with the on-going impacts of the pandemic.
"This is a problem that the new Treasurer has inherited from his predecessors and there are many competing demands on the Budget. Nonetheless, we believe there is a strong case for beer tax relief to be provided by the new Federal Government - with the hidden beer tax to go up again in February 2023.
