The Australian Distillers Association (ADA) is the peak national body representing Australian spirits producers. Our role is to advocate, support, and promote the interests of the Australian distilling industry so it can be successful, sustainable, and globally competitive. 

In practical terms our role can be grouped into five core functions: 

 

1. Industry Advocacy & Policy Leadership 

The ADA represents distillers to federal, state and territory governments, regulators and agencies. 

Key advocacy areas include: 

  • Excise policy (rates, relief schemes, integrity of the system)

  • Regulatory reform (licensing, labelling, compliance burden)

  • Trade and export access

  • Sustainability and regional development

  • Tourism and visitor experiences  

We develop evidence-based policy positions, act as the collective voice of the craft spirits industry and play an important role for small and emerging distillers who would not otherwise be heard. 

 

2. Protecting Industry Integrity 

We work to ensure: 

  • Fair competition within the spirits market

  • Integrity in the use of government support measures

  • Clear definitions of what constitutes a genuine distiller

  • Consumer trust in Australian spirits 

This includes addressing practices that undermine policy intent, damage reputations, or threaten excise revenue, while supporting legitimate innovation and collaboration. 

 

3. Industry Development & Support 

We help members: 

  • Navigate complex excise and regulatory requirements

  • Share best practice in production, safety and compliance

  • Build commercially viable businesses

  • Access training, resources and expert advice 

Act as a knowledge hub for the industry. 

 

4. Promotion of Australian Spirits 

We promote Australian spirits domestically and internationally by: 

  • Championing the quality and diversity of Australian distilling

  • Supporting export readiness and trade engagement

  • Aligning with national branding initiatives where appropriate

  • Building the reputation of Australian spirits as premium, authentic and world-class 

     

5. Building a Strong, United Industry 

We: 

  • Bring together distillers from across all spirits categories

  • Facilitate collaboration rather than fragmentation

  • Represent the sector to media and stakeholders

  • Provides a forum for collective problem-solving and strategic direction