The Craft Beer Industry Association (CBIA), the national body representing Australia’s craft brewers, has welcomed the NSW Government’s decision to implement the recommendations from the Foggo review of the NSW Liquor Act 2007.
The Minister for Hospitality, Gaming and Racing, Mr Troy Grant, has announced that the Government would implement the two recommendations most important to the craft beer industry within six months.
These changes will mean that brewers will now have the same rights under their producer/wholesaler licences as wine makers.
Once the changes are implemented brewers will be able to operate a bar or restaurant by applying for an extension to their current licence known as a “drink on premises authorisation” rather than applying for a restaurant or small bar licence at further cost and effort.
They will also be allowed to sell their product at producers’ markets.
These important changes to the Act have the potential to greatly benefit the more than 60 craft brewers based in NSW and their employees.
Chair of the Craft Beer Industry Association Dave Bonighton welcomed the news.
“It has been a nervous wait since the recommendations were handed down last December so we are relieved that the Minister has decided to support our industry,” said Bonighton.
“We had actively campaigned for these changes.”
He added: “The craft beer industry is a good news story on so many fronts. We are a manufacturing industry that is growing. We provide jobs in regional and rural areas. We are a positive influence in the social fabric of our communities.”
“This decision will allow current members of our industry to find further avenues to market for their products and it will open up new opportunities for others to join the industry.”