The Australian Tax Office has increased the tax on beer by 4 per cent, making Australia one of the most expensive countries to enjoy a schooner in.
A litre of beer now costs $55.73, which is $2.50 more under the changes that came into effect on Monday this week.
“Australians are taxed on beer more than almost any other nation,” says John Preston, CEO of the Brewers Association of Australia.
“We have seen almost 20 increases in Australia’s beer tax over the past decade alone.”
The industry campaigned for lower taxes earlier this year, however did not succeed.
“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,” said Preston.
Preston said drinkers can expect to pay around $15 for a pint, with venues also feeling the pinch in a big way.
“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,” he says.
The Brewers Association has now called on the Federal Government to provide tax relief, however it’s likely the tax will increase again in February next year, which could see Australia pass Norway, Japan and Finland to become the country with the highest taxes on beer.