Excise Tariff Amendment (Draught Beer) Bill 2025, Customs Tariff Amendment (Draught Beer) Bill 2025; Second Reading

Comer argued the freeze provides genuine assistance to consumers of beer, producers, and neighbourhood establishments by halting automatic price increases. Comer highlighted that the measure supports approximately 160,000 hospitality jobs and helps small businesses manage rising costs. Comer framed the bill as part of a broader cost-of-living strategy, including tax cuts and energy bill relief, aimed at easing pressure on households and businesses.

Ryan supported the bill but argued for a permanent freeze on draught beer excise indexation to better address cost-of-living pressures. Ryan noted that draught beer prices had risen significantly more than inflation, making beer a luxury item. Ryan also highlighted challenges faced by independent craft brewers competing against large multinational corporations and suggested the freeze would benefit local economies and workers.

French described the bill as a sensible pause on automatic CPI hikes, providing breathing space for pubs, clubs, and breweries. French emphasised the social role of venues as community hubs and noted the measure supports small businesses and regional tourism. French clarified that the freeze applies specifically to draught beer to target hospitality venues, ensuring stability for workers and business owners without undermining public health objectives.

Wilson supported the bills, aligning with principles of lower taxes and freedom of choice. Wilson praised the recognition of pubs as social infrastructure but argued the two-year freeze was too short-term. Wilson called for long-term certainty and broader tax reductions, noting that high excise rates hindered the growth of local breweries and distilleries. Wilson urged the government to address the overall tax burden on the alcohol industry.

Byrnes welcomed the targeted pause on indexation, highlighting its benefits for regional communities and the craft beer industry. Byrnes cited specific local breweries and venues in the Illawarra that would benefit from the stability. Byrnes linked the measure to broader government efforts to support small business, including increased excise remission caps for manufacturers, and emphasised the social value of pubs in fostering community connection.

Batt welcomed the freeze but argued it was insufficient, delivering less than one cent relief per pint. Batt called for a thorough examination of the alcohol excise framework and advocated extending the freeze to tap spirits. Batt criticised the government's economic management and energy policies, arguing they contributed to high costs for businesses. Batt urged broader tax reform and support for the viability of local breweries and distilleries.

Mitchell supported the bills as a responsible intervention to stabilise prices for hospitality venues and protect local jobs. Mitchell noted the measure prevents automatic CPI increases, providing certainty for small businesses and helping them compete with larger international brands. Mitchell emphasised the role of pubs in community life and argued the freeze would help maintain patronage and support hospitality workers.

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McCormack argued that the legislation was a political stunt that ignored the deeper structural issues of the alcohol excise system and the cost-of-living crisis. McCormack emphasised the critical role of pubs in regional communities, citing examples from the Riverina where local efforts saved hotels that serve as essential service providers and social centres. McCormack stated that the freeze on indexation would deliver less than one cent of relief per pint, which he described as insufficient. McCormack contended that the government should instead conduct a comprehensive review of the alcohol excise system and address illegal cigarette trading and regional infrastructure deficits.