The Australian Distillers Association celebrates 20th anniversary with conference addressing key challenges 

Today, the Australian Distillers Association is hosting more than 400 members and 100 exhibitors for its annual conference, this year hosted in Brisbane. The event, which coincides with the Association’s 20th anniversary, will address key challenges currently being experienced by Australia’s spirits industry.

One of the challenges that will be on the agenda at todays conference is the impact cost of living pressures are having on the consumption of premium spirits. 

“Since last year’s conference, we have faced a cost of living crisis – and we are feeling this play out at our distillery doors and in retail settings, as we battle to claim a slice of low discretionary spending,” said Holly Klintworth, President at the Australian Distillers Association President.

As it stands, Australian distillers are required to pay $101.85 in tax for every litre of alcohol following on from the latest increase to Australia’s spirits tax. In addition to this, the Brisbane conference will also discuss the concerning relationship between the bi-annual spirits excise and increasing inflation. 

“The most recent report from the Australian Bureau of Statistics confirms that Australia’s spirits excise is actually fuelling inflation. This is the third time the ABS has specifically called this out in their quarterly reports,” said Klintworth. 

“It’s also making illicit activity more attractive… just over the weekend, Victorian Police busted a one billion dollar liquor substitution racket that blends dangerous industrial alcohol – like paint stripper and brake fluid – into whisky, vodka and other spirits products.”

Today’s conference is being put on in partnership with Queensland State Government and will feature a speech by Federal Assistant Minister for Trade and Manufacturing Tim Ayres. Ayres' speech, which comes shortly after the Albanese Government’s recently announced Future Made in Australia Act, has been heavily anticipated by many.

“We are an industry that can offer so much more to Australian beverage manufacturing – but we need to work with government to realise this potential,” said Klintworth.

“I say to Assistant Minister Ayres this morning that Australian distillers are ready to answer the call to build a strong and sustainable manufacturing base in Australia."

Annastacia Palaszczuk, the former Premier of Queensland, will also be addressing a Women’s Networking Breakfast tomorrow morning.

“I look forward to celebrating our 20 years with members in Brisbane, as we celebrate our many achievements, and contemplate our pathway to becoming Australia’s next export powerhouse.”