With the election season in full swing, Evin Craney, Chair of the Independent Brewers Association (IBA), is urging indie brewers to advocate for policy changes that will benefit their sector. Craney emphasized the importance of pushing local MPs to act on critical issues, particularly tax reforms that currently hinder growth in the industry.
Despite contributing $3 billion annually to Australia’s economy and employing over half of the nation’s beer sector workforce, independent brewers face disproportionate challenges due to restrictive tax policies. While the IBA welcomed the government’s decision to freeze the draught beer tax in its pre-Budget announcement, the move fails to address the needs of the packaged beer market and does not offer direct support for the independent brewing industry.
Tax reform remains one of the IBA’s top priorities. In a recent interview with Beer & Brewer, Craney pointed out that the organization is calling for a pause on excise taxes for all beer products, including packaged beer, for a two-year period. He noted that the current policy disproportionately benefits foreign-owned breweries, as they dominate the draught beer market. “This pause will not reduce beer prices for consumers, but it will slow the rise in costs, which is a step in the right direction,” Craney explained.
In addition to tax reform, Craney called for a comprehensive review of beer excise taxes, a promise that both Labor and Liberal MPs have made if elected. The review would assess the long-term sustainability of independent, Australian-owned brewers and propose measures to make the industry more accessible to consumers.
Craney also highlighted the dominance of foreign-owned breweries, such as Asahi and Lion Nathan, which control approximately 90% of the beer market. This duopoly, he argued, restricts access for both producers and consumers, stifling competition and hindering the growth of independent brewers. “With twice-yearly price increases and limited market access, the future of our industry is at serious risk,” Craney stated.
Despite these challenges, Craney praised Dr. Helen Haines, the Federal MP for Indi, for her continued advocacy for the independent brewing sector. Haines has been vocal about the need for reforms, particularly in regional areas like Indi, where local brewers play a vital role in the community. Craney noted that since their meeting in March, Haines has taken significant steps to support the cause, including writing to fellow MPs and following up with the ACCC and the federal treasurer.
As the IBA continues to push for these reforms, Craney urged fellow brewers to get involved and make their voices heard during the election period. “The IBA offers valuable resources to help you engage with MPs, and together, we can create meaningful change that benefits the entire industry,” he said. “There is power in numbers, and through collective action, we can shape the future of Australia’s brewing sector.”
Craney concluded by stressing the importance of unity in the face of adversity, encouraging brewers to remain motivated by the potential for long-lasting change that could support future generations of independent brewers.
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