The Australian spirits industry looks forward to participating in the Inquiry into Food and Beverage Manufacturing in Australia, announced by the Federal Government. The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Resources commenced the inquiry following a referral from the Minister for Industry and Science, the Hon Ed Husic MP, on 18 March 2024. The Terms of Reference are highly relevant to the spirits sector, comprising a broad suite of opportunities for expanding innovation and value-adding in the food and beverage manufacturing industry.

This announcement is very timely for the Australian spirits industry, which has clear potential for an export boom like that previously enjoyed by wine. Our industry has experienced rapid growth in recent years, with over 700 distilleries and manufacturing plants across the country, supporting more than 5,700 jobs in spirits manufacturing and a further 100,000 jobs throughout our value chain. We have built a reputation for producing innovative world-class spirits, building global consumer demand for quality spirits made in Australia.

The industry generates $15.5 billion in added-value to the Australian economy, however, this contribution could be even greater with policy settings that encourage domestic and foreign investment in our industry. We will then be in a position to enhance our manufacturing capabilities, grow exports and create jobs at our distilleries, half of which are located in regional areas.

This is the first ever Federal Government inquiry that is open to the spirits sector, which has made remarkable progress in recent years.

Spirits manufacturing needs a comprehensive plan to ensure our growth is sustainable over the longer term. Without targeted interventions, the Australian spirits industry will be left behind as governments in other emerging spirits markets – like Japan and Ireland – invest in the potential of their domestic industries.

A webinar was conducted on 28 March that included the ADA Board, ADA State Presidents, the Spirits & Cocktails Australia Board, and the SCA Corporate Affairs Committee. The webinar addressed the Parliamentary Inquiry ToR, process, timeline and key stakeholders. It then discussed the proposed industry response and the need to activate our network.

Taking advantage of the MOU between ADA and SCA, a taskforce has been set up between the two organisations and Nicole Lestal will be the taskforce lead and support will be provided by ADA and SCA. We have met with the committee members, the Ministers office, the Committee secretariat, the Assistant Minister, the Department and have begun to brief industry stakeholders.

State Presidents will be requested to host a similar workshop for their State organisations in the coming week.

All divisions, groups and individuals will be encouraged and assisted to make a submission to the inquiry.