The Coalition’s Treasury Laws Amendment (2019 Measures No.1) Bill 2019, that included measures to extend concessional rates of excise to craft brewers, passed through Canberra’s lower house late on Tuesday.

Earlier this year, the Coalition introduced new legislation to deliver on its May Budget promise to extend support to craft brewers and distillers in Australia.

Assistant Treasurer Stuart Robert said at the time that the amendments to the Treasury Laws and Excise Tariff Acts would deliver on the Government’s promise to give more support to craft brewers.

The Treasury Laws Amendment (2019 Measures No. 1) Bill 2019 increases the alcohol excise refund scheme cap from $30,000 to $100,000 per financial year for Australian brewers, distillers and producers of other fermented beverages such as non-traditional cider.

The federal government’s move to support the craft brewing industry follows similar moves by the New South Wales and Queensland state governments.