Zali Steggall Calls to Support Brewers & Distillers

Independent MP Zali Steggall calls for urgent action to support Warringah’s craft brewers and distillers

Independent Warringah MP Zali Steggall has called for stronger support for independent alcohol producers, warning that excise tax pressures and rising costs threaten the future of small brewers and distilleries.

The Albanese government has introduced a bill to pause beer excise indexation for two years. But this applies only to draught beer – not to beer in bottles and cans most commonly used by independent brewers. And the measure offers no assistance to spirits distillers.

Warringah is home to a vibrant craft brewing and distilling scene, including Freshwater Brewing Company, Four Pines and Manly Spirits Co. Distillery.

On Tuesday, Steggall told Parliament that breweries and distillers are “a cornerstone of the Warringah community”, employing local people and underpinning community events such as Brookie Fest.

“But in recent years they have grappled with pandemic-era debt, soaring inflation and an ever-increasing excise burden,” Steggall said.

More than 50 independent brewing businesses entered voluntary administration or closed in the two years to April 2025, according to the Independent Brewers Association. In her speech, Steggall cited alarming figures showing:

• excise on beer and spirits has risen by about 20% since February 2020
• ingredient costs have skyrocketed - hop prices increased by up to 50% between 2020 and 2022, and malt costs rose nearly 20% between 2022-2023

utilities and storage costs have also surged, squeezing margins for small producers.

Breweries contribute almost $2 billion to the economy each year and distillers have the potential to grow to be a $1 billion export industry by 2035.

In September last year, Steggall and other crossbench MPs wrote to the Treasurer advocating for alcohol excise relief for small alcohol producers – but these producers will see few benefits from the proposed legislation.

Steggall called on the government to expand relief to include independent alcohol producers, and undertake other measures to help new and independent players thrive against large industry incumbents.