Federal Member for Bass, Ross Hart MP welcomes news of excise tax reform to end discrimination against brewers of craft beer, a move that follows a long-running Labor campaign for justice for the thriving sector.
Media reports today suggest that Tuesday’s Budget will end the situation whereby excise applied to 50 litre kegs is levied at a lower rate than that applied to smaller kegs, which are widely used by craft brewers.
The reform will also reportedly give small brewers access to the same system of excise refunds available to big breweries.
Craft brewing in Tasmania is a growing industry.
Member for Bass, Ross Hart said, “Following in the success of Morrisons, Little Rivers Co., Van Dieman, Kicksnare and Taverner’s Breweries, I understand new breweries have been proposed all around Bass including Beaconsfield, Derby and more to come.“
“The development of the sector has also created a new tourism sector – craft brewery tours.”
“Craft brewers deserve to operate on a level playing field with the big multinational beer brands. And beer drinkers should pay the same regardless of what brand of beer they enjoy.
“I congratulate the craft beer industry for its victory and look forward to this change enabling even more new jobs and economic activity, particularly in my electorate in Northern Tasmania, home to some of the nation’s best small and large breweries,” Mr Hart said.
Federal Member for Bass, Ross Hart MP
