State Government didn't raise concerns over craft brewery levy increase

The Department of State Development has admitted no modelling was done before a hiked levy was imposed on craft breweries.  

The State Government has admitted no modelling was done on the impact of a new craft brewery levy. Picture: AAP Image/Angelo Velardo

THE Department of State Development has admitted no modelling was done before a hiked levy was imposed on craft breweries.  

The Courier-Mail last week revealed multiple brewers had received notices from their councils informing them of an almost 900 per cent increase in the state’s emergency management levy.

It has soared from $527.80 last year to $5224.20 this financial year.

A new fire levy category for breweries was created based on their gross floor space to stop smaller operations from being slugged with the highest $90,000 levy.

Following questioning from LNP backbencher Brent Mickelberg during Estimates, the Department of State Development’s Acting Director-General Toni Power said no modelling was done on the potential impact of the increase.

The department also did not raise concerns with the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services regarding the increased levy.

“The Government backs small business,” Ms Power said.

“In Queensland we have about 100 independent breweries supporting more than 1700 jobs.

“Local councils are conducting audits to ensure that the emergency management levy is being applied correctly.

“I’m advised that the audit is revealing that some independent breweries had been charged the wrong levy.

“I’m also advised that the EML ensures that businesses including those that produce alcohol have an A-Class response from emergency services should there be a fire or similar emergency.”

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Originally published as State Government didn't raise concerns over craft brewery levy increase

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