With an increase of mergers and acquisitions in the alcohol industry, the ATO (and specifically the Alcohol Stakeholder Group) are reminding businesses of the implications such activities may have on the eligibility of entities to apply the Excise remission scheme for manufacturers of alcoholic beverages (Remission Scheme).

Australia’s alcohol taxation system is illogical, incoherent, and discriminatory regarding spirits. The policy settings for the Australian spirits industry have only been tinkered with by successive governments. It is now time for the Government to act. We need your support.

Australian spirits manufacturers are this week confronting the grim reality of yet another increase to the world’s third highest spirits tax.

Callington Mill Distillery are seeking expressions of interest from those wishing to purchase premium quality, freshly decanted 30L casks. These casks have been maturing Callington Mill Distillery Single Malt Whisky.

Australian spirits manufacturers have renewed their calls for a freeze on spirits tax increases, as bi-annual indexation continues to fuel inflation and cost of living pressures.

The early bird registration discount for ADI's 2024 International Spirits Competition will end in about two weeks on February 2, 2024.

Members would be aware that the Australian Distillers Association is in the process of reviewing the Rules and Constitution of the Association. This is hoped to be finalised early next year and presented to members at this time for your consideration.

Thank you to Members who have engaged with their local MP. The most effective voice we have is when local distillers engage directly with your local representative.

The Royal Agricultural Society of NSW (RAS) will venture into the world of distilled spirits for the first time since 1981 next year as it launches its inaugural stand-alone Sydney Royal Distilled Spirits Show.

Taking advantage of SCA bringing State Presidents together for the Parliamentary Inquiry Workshop, State Presidents held an informal catch up to discuss State issues. Weather conditions impacted on the attendance.

Alcohol Beverage Australia held their Annual General Meeting and Council Meeting. The Chief Executive of ABA confirmed that the current Board had been elected at the previous AGM for a period of two years.

In November, Australian Distillers President, Holly Klintworth, and Treasurer/Secretary, Stephen Parry met with the Chair of Spirits & Cocktails Australia, to discuss the MOU between the two associations.