While the Federal Budget rarely causes a stir in Beer HQ, this year we were hit with a surprise announce from the Government that they have finally decided to listen to the craft brewing industry and grant some tax relief. Effective from 1 July 2012 the Microbreweries Excise Refund Scheme will be extended. This means that the maximum refund amount will be expanded from $10,000 to $30,000 and the current production eligibility threshold of 30,000 litres of beer will be abolished.
Unsurprisingly there has been an outpouring of support from the industry. Industry stalwarts John Stallwood, of Nail Brewing and Microbrewing.com, and Jane Huntington, of Two Metre Tall, are well known for their campaigns against excise – the former for putting a call to action on his beer cases and the latter for teaming up with the Greens to lobby government – say that the reforms are a step in the right direction... read more.
Have you been planning the grand opening of your own microbrewery, but just don’t know where to start? Or are you in the liquor industry and need to train your staff in beer styles? There is something for everyone at this year’s Beer & Brewer Conference with 11 sessions including Excise administration from the ATO, kegs and draught beer dispense options, packaging, starting a microbrewery and the business of brewing. You can also hear from the experts – the guys who sell the stuff – on the building blocks of beer (hops, malt and yeast) as they take you through everything you need to know about what is available and how to best utilise it. We’ve even thrown in some Cider for good measure with some great cider makers sharing their experiences.
Designed to fit in a trip to the AIBA awards, it’s sure to be an educational and informative day says organiser David Lipman. “Brewers need to ensure they are brewing consistent quality beer, are aware of new ingredients, keg and packaging options, as well as how to administer excise tax and more,” he says “While retailers need to ensure they are stocking the beers and ciders in demand from the 2000+ options on the market, and their staff need to be well armed with the knowledge and confidence to sell these products”.
Click here to sign up now or for more details.
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