09/03/2026

Shadow Treasurer Tim Wilson and Shadow Assistant Treasurer Pat Conaghan today announced Coalition amendments to the Government’s beer excise bills to protect pubs and small businesses from Labor’s inflation crisis.

Under the Coalition’s amendments, we will:

• Extend the pause on automatic tax increases to on-tap spirits for one year from 1 August 2026, so Australians aren’t treated differently based on what they choose to drink; and
• Require Treasury to conduct a full review of Australia’s alcohol tax system, with a report to the Treasurer by 2 November 2026 and tabling in Parliament within 15 sitting days.

Shadow Treasurer Tim Wilson said Australians suffering under Labor’s cost of living crisis deserve meaningful relief – not symbolic measures.

“Labor’s freeze cuts less than one cent off the price of a pint.” Mr Wilson said.

“If the Government is serious about helping households and hospitality businesses, it needs to address the structural problems in the system, not just apply a temporary band-aid.”

Mr Wilson said Australia’s alcohol tax regime no longer reflects modern economic realities.

“Pubs and small businesses across Australia are struggling to keep their doors open. Our alcohol tax rules are more than a century old. Similar drinks are taxed in completely different ways. There’s no rhyme or reason to it – it’s just bad tax policy.” he said.

“Our amendment requires the Government to conduct a proper, evidence-based review, so we can finally fix up the mess. This is the way Governments are supposed to conduct responsible tax reform, instead of secret plans for higher taxes leaked to the media.”

Shadow Assistant Treasurer Pat Conaghan said pubs and clubs deserve more.

“The Coalition recognises that local pubs and clubs are the lifeblood of their communities, particularly in regional and rural towns. They’re more than just a place to get a drink, they’re an integral part of our Aussie way of life. And right now, they’re being crushed under the weight of rising costs and unrelenting government interference.” Mr Conaghan said.

“They deserve more than the scraps that they are currently receiving from the Treasurer’s table. And as a unified Opposition, we will continue to put pressure on the Government make it right.”

The Coalition’s amendments would lock in the first review focused on alcohol tax settings in over 100 years. This would ensure alcohol tax policy is guided by sound economic principles and evidence, rather than short-term politics.

Australians deserve better tax policy.