Alcopops tax to get second chance
LEGISLATION to resurrect the alcopops tax and validate revenue already collected will be introduced when parliament returns next month.
At a press conference today with Treasurer Wayne Swan, Health Minister Nicola Roxon said the Government's alcopops policy was a success as it dramatically reduced sales of the ready-to-drink beverages.
The Government wasn't prepared to abandon those gains, Ms Roxon said.
Since April last year, the Government has collected $365 million from distillers and distributors.
The 70 per cent tax hike on the sweetened, pre-mixed drinks failed by one vote in the Senate last month, severely embarrassing the Government.
The alcopops tax hike took effect from midnight on April 26 last year but was only formally put to the House of Representatives on budget night last year, which fell on May 13.
Parliament must pass supporting legislation for the revenue measure within 12 months of the latter date, leaving the Government with just two sitting days to secure the votes needed to keep it in place.
Parliament resumes on May 12, with the tax office collecting the alcopops excise at the higher rate until midnight on May 13.
The Coalition voted against the alcopops tax hike, but has called on the Government to retain revenue collected so far.
