‘A great industry with a bright future’: Federal pollies praise alcohol beverages industry at inaugural Celebration of Industry Dinner
Federal politicians from all corners of the political spectrum joined alcohol beverages industry stakeholders, including winemakers, brewers, distillers, retailers, restaurateurs and caterers, clubs and hospitality representatives in Canberra last night to celebrate the industry and the significant economic and social contribution alcohol beverages make to our uniquely Australian way of life.
Addressing the inaugural Celebration of Industry Dinner, hosted by peak industry body Alcohol Beverages Australia on Tuesday 15 August in the Great Hall, Parliament House, Canberra, Michael McCormack MP, Minister for Small Business said the Federal Government recognises the importance of the industry’s role in job creation in all Australian communities.
Mr McCormack described the more than 400,000 jobs created by the industry as, “A mighty contribution to our economy. For that, the sector is to be highly and earnestly congratulated.”
“Yours is a story of jobs and innovation and it’s something you should be celebrating,” Mr McCormack said.
Speaking on behalf of the Opposition, Shadow Minister for Trade and Investment, Jason Clare MP praised the alcohol beverages industry’s contribution to the local economy.
“This is a great industry with a bright future… you’re kicking goals, and that means more jobs,” Mr Clare said.
Alcohol Beverages Australia Chairman, Giuseppe Minissale said in addition to providing vital employment opportunities for local communities and a significant contribution to the Australian economy, the industry importantly also makes a great contribution to the sociability and quality of life of Australians.
“Events like tonight reflect an industry with a growing determination to work together to promote its great products. We look forward to working with parliament, our consumers and the community at large to ensure our industry and the people that work in it can continue to evolve and prosper.”
Attendees also heard insights on how the industry is evolving from some of the brightest emerging stars from the beer, wine, spirits and retailing sectors, during a panel discussion hosted by journalist Annabel Crabb.
“The event provided an important opportunity for all members of the industry to join with ABA members and parliamentarians to celebrate the way Australia’s drinking culture and habits are changing for the better,” Alcohol Beverages Australia Executive Director Fergus Taylor said.
Alcohol Beverages Australia is the peak industry body created to highlight the positive social, cultural and economic contribution of alcohol beverages in Australia, and promote, explain and defend the legitimate rights of the industry and the 15 million Australians who drink responsibly. devsite.alcoholbeveragesaustralia.org.au
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Matt Johnston
Ph: 0432 535 893 or matt@alcoholbeveragesaustralia.org.au