The Australian Distillers Association is celebrating its 20th anniversary at its 2024 conference held at the Brisbane Showgrounds.
Australian Distillers Association chief executive Paul McLeay said the spirits manufacturing industry has made tremendous progress over the last two decades since the association was formed.
“There were just a handful of distilleries operating in Australia in 2004, when our association held its first formal meeting,” he said.
“Twenty years on, there are 700 distilleries and manufacturing plants spread across Australia.
“Over 400 members and 100 exhibitors have come to Brisbane to celebrate our progress and contemplate our future.”
Federal Assistant Minister for Trade and Manufacturing, Senator the Hon. Tim Ayres addressed delegates, following the Australian Government’s landmark economic announcement of the Future Made In Australia Act.
Former Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk will also address a Women’s Networking Breakfast tomorrow morning.
Australian Distillers Association President Holly Klintworth (above) said in her opening address this morning that many distillers have had a tough year.
“Solidarity and support are now more important than ever,” she said.
“Since last year’s conference, we have faced a cost of living crisis – and we are feeling this play out at our distillery doors and in retail settings, as we battle to claim a slice of low discretionary spending.”
“The most recent report from the Australian Bureau of Statistics confirms that Australia’s spirits excise is actually fuelling inflation. This is the third time the ABS has specifically called this out in their quarterly reports.”
“It’s also making illicit activity more attractive.
“Just over the weekend, Victorian Police busted a one billion dollar liquor substitution racket that blends dangerous industrial alcohol – like paint stripper and brake fluid – into whisky, vodka and other spirits products.”
“Melbourne’s The Age newspaper reported that organised crime has moved onto bootlegged booze to avoid the high spirits excise, which is now $101.85 per pure litre of alcohol.
“We are an industry that can offer so much more to Australian beverage manufacturing – but we need to work with government to realise this potential.”
Klintworth said she remains optimistic about the future of the Australian distilling industry.
“I say to Assistant Minister Ayres this morning that Australian distillers are ready to answer the call to build a strong and sustainable manufacturing base in Australia.
“Together, we can build a future made in Australia.”
“I look forward to celebrating our 20 years with members in Brisbane, as we celebrate our many achievements, and contemplate our pathway to becoming Australia’s next export powerhouse.”