One of Australia’s leading producers of RTD alcoholic beverages has discovered that they can steer clear of the ‘alcopop’ tax by using alcohol derived from beer. Independent Distillers told Fairfax that they are set to launch a beverage called ‘Bolt’, which should appeal to younger drinkers with its passionfruit, raspberry and blueberry flavours. The drink does not use typical spirits, instead utilising alcohol derived from beer. The beer taste is stripped out during... ...Read more »

The Senate Committee Inquiry into the proposed tax increase on “alcopops” begun this morning in Canberra with the public hearing, held over the next two days, to have evidence provided by 17 groups (mainly from health and alcohol sectors). The Community Affairs Committee is due to report on ten issues relating to the proposed tax increase on ready-to-drink (RTD) alcoholic beverages. The primary issues are: the likely effect of the scheme on RTD consumption prevalence, the modelling underpinning... ...Read more »