What do you call a group of publicans?
Not happy if they’ve come together to talk about the tax on grog.
Federal MP Kevin Hogan met with Australian Hotels Association members and local pub owners in Lismore including publicans from Woodburn, Casino and Woodenbong.
“Pubs are important gathering places – in rural and regional communities, going to the pub for a meal and a beer can be the only social interactions some people have. Not being able to afford this can affect people’s mental health,” Mr Hogan said.
The excise on beer increased by 11% in 2023, meaning 60% of the cost of packaged full-strength beer and 47% of mid-strength beer is now comprised of tax, he said.
“Local pubs are currently charging around $8.60 for a schooner of Tooheys New, if these increases continue, we are on the path to a $10 schooner.”
The excise on spirits has risen 17% since 2020, with up to 63% of the cost of an average bottle of spirits comprised of tax.
Mr Hogan said the excise is putting regional pubs at risk.
He wants the State Government to provide immediate cost of living measures for the domestic beer and spirits industry.
Plenty of pub owners and drinkers will agree with him.
This information was provided by the office of Kevin Hogan.