WIMMERA publicans are confident the federal government will not agree to a proposed alcohol tax hike.

The Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education has submitted a proposal to the government for a 10 per cent rise on all alcohol taxes. 

However, the tax on draught beer – discounted since 2001 – would be lifted to match that imposed on packaged beer at bottle shops. 

As such, the tax on light beer at pubs would increase more than five-fold, mid-strength ale tax would double, and tax on full-strength lager would increase by 50 per cent. 

The group hopes its measures will help standardise the way alcohol is taxed.

Horsham’s Exchange Hotel manager Luke Robertson said he was confident the proposed tax would not be enforced.

“I think the Australian Hotels Association will put a stop to it before it gets anywhere,” he said. 

Mr Robertson said he believed the rise was a money grabbing idea and would not reduce binge drinking. 

“They have already taxed lolly drinks and that hasn’t slowed down binge drinking,” he said. 

“It’s making it too expensive to go out and it affects everyone, not just binge drinkers who they’re trying to stop. 

“I think this will just keep more people drinking at home.”

Wimmera Drug Action Taskforce co-ordinator Sally Pymer said the evolution of pubs should have businesses well-placed to remain sustainable. 

“The region’s hotels in 2018 are more than just watering holes – they provide entertainment, social interaction and quality meals, as well as beer and other alcoholic drinks,” she said.

Ms Pymer said the region has a very strong culture of alcohol that was at harmful levels. 

The proposed tax intends to minimise the harms around alcohol by reducing alcohol consumption. 

“Consumers who pay more for their alcohol are likely to drink less,” Ms Pymer said. 

“This could have the benefit of less violence and publicans not having to deal with as many problematic behaviours. 

“There might also be a reduction in the need for emergency services, which could reduce costs and provide benefits to the community.” 

Overall, Ms Pymer said the tax was proposed to deter people from drinking, not because beer was too cheap. 

“Taxes were increased on tobacco to deter people from smoking. The tax on alcohol has been suggested for the same reasons,” she said. 

“In regions where an alcohol tax has been introduced there has been a reduction in alcohol consumption.”