Scott Buchholz (Wright, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Roads and Transport) Share this | Hansard source

I acknowledge the contribution made by the shadow tourism minister. The Customs Tariff Amendment (Craft Beer) Bill 2019 amends the Custom Tariff Act 1995 to lower the rate of the excise equivalent customs duty applied to beer imported in containers of between eight and 48 litres. Currently, beer imported in containers that exceed 48 litres is subject to a lower rate of excise equivalent customs duty compared to the same beer imported in smaller containers. So, from 1 July 2019, this bill extends the lower excise equivalent rate currently applied to beers in containers over 48 litres to beers in containers of eight litres or more, provided the container is designed to connect to a pressurised gauge or pump device system.

The amendments to the Customs Tariff Act 1995 correspond with the proposed amendments to the Excise Tariff Act 1921, which applies to the equivalent domestically produced goods. This means imported goods will continue to be subject to the same tax treatment as the equivalent domestically produced goods. Lowering the excise rate for domestically produced beer in containers between eight and 48 litres will allow craft brewers, who typically use these smaller containers, to benefit from lower rates. Extending the lower rate for improved beer will ensure that Australia is fully compliant with our international commitment.

I welcome the support of Labor for such an important bill. In particular, I would like to make mention of craft brewers in my electorate. Recently, Scenic Rim Brewing, one of our many craft brewers, was nominated by the Scenic Rim Regional Council for the business excellence awards. They will appreciate this bill that has gone before the House and been accepted by both sides wholeheartedly.

Bill read a second time.

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