Clubs Australia calls for immediate freeze as alcohol excise increases again
Clubs Australia is calling on the Federal Government to implement a 12-month freeze on alcohol excise duty rates, with yet another tax increase taking effect from 1 February.
Under the automatic indexation system, alcohol excise duty rises every six months, with today's increase further compounding the financial strain on clubs already grappling with inflationary pressures.
Executive Director of Clubs Australia, Rebecca Riant, said the continued excise hikes are making it harder for clubs to do business while supporting their local communities.
"Clubs across the country are once again facing higher costs due to the automatic alcohol excise increase," Ms Riant said.
"These biannual hikes leave clubs with two difficult choices - either increase prices for members who are already struggling with cost-of-living pressures or absorb the extra costs, which directly reduces the funding available for vital community programs."
With the cost of doing business already rising in line with a range of inflationary pressures, clubs are under mounting financial strain. As not-for-profit organisations, the funds clubs generate are reinvested into their communities, supporting grassroots sports, charities and essential local services.
"Clubs Australia is calling on the Government to provide urgent relief by freezing alcohol excise for 12 months. A temporary freeze would allow clubs to continue supporting their communities without passing on the excise increases to everyday Australians," Ms Riant said.
Clubs Australia remains committed to working with the Government to ensure a fairer taxation framework that recognises the cost pressures on clubs.
ClubsNSW, 3rd February 2025
