BREWERS RAISE A GLASS TO CHANGES
CRAFT brewers on the Gold Coast are raising a glass to news that the Federal Government will cut the tax on small kegs in tomorrow’s Budget.
Treasurer Scott Morrisson last week announced that “outdated and ridiculous” rules that saw beer sold in kegs larger than 48 litres taxed less than smaller kegs favoured by craft brewers would be amended.
Burleigh Brewing Company CEO Peta Fielding said she was relieved that Canberra was finally listening to the sector.
“After 12 years of no one being interested in craft beer, we are seeing some change – which is exciting,” Ms Fielding said.
“Federally there has been discussions for a long time about levelling the playing field with the wine industry, to say we are also a sector worthy of support.”
Ms Fielding said the newfound support was all about realising the benefits small manufactures bring to the economy.
“The industry can really contribute wherever it pops up, we have 40 employees now but we started with just the two of us 12 years ago,” the former chair of the Craft Beer Industry Association said. “That is part of what drives us, if you can provide a job, another family can stay on the Gold Coast.
“And the Gold Coast is leading the charge when it comes to the industry.”
In Queensland alone craft beer production is estimated to be worth around
$62 million per year and growing, and more than 13 per cent of Australia’s 516 independent breweries are found in the state.
“The Gold Coast is becoming an easier market to get into now different venues are wanting to have craft beer on offer,” Mrs Fielding said.
“It’s the rock star principal, you need to get popular somewhere else for people at home to embrace you, and the Gold Coast is really now embracing craft beer.”