This freeze will take effect from the next indexation date of August 2025
The Australian government will freeze the indexation on draught beer excise for two years, benefiting beer drinkers, brewers, and hospitality businesses. Indexation has been applied twice a year under a longstanding policy. While the February indexation had only a small impact on the cost of a pint, this change will provide relief for pubs and their patrons.
This freeze will take effect from the next indexation date of August 2025. By not increasing the excise, it will ease the financial pressure on the price of beer served in pubs, clubs, and other venues, supporting local businesses, regional tourism, and customers throughout Australia. The government will consult with the industry about the implementation of this measure.
This announcement follows recent tax relief for Australia’s distillers, brewers, and wine producers. Currently, brewers and distillers receive a full remission of any excise paid up to $350,000 each year. The government plans to increase this excise remission cap to $400,000 for all eligible alcohol manufacturers, and the Wine Equalisation Tax producer rebate cap will also rise to $400,000 starting July 1, 2026.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated, “My Government is building Australia’s future, and to do that, we need to support our small and medium local businesses to thrive. Freezing the excise on draught beer is a common-sense measure that is good for beer drinkers, good for brewers, and good for pubs.”
