By Andrew Starke
Australian Greens Senator and spokesperson for health Dr Richard Di Natale has criticised the Gillard government for taking alcohol tax reform off the agenda for the October tax forum.
“There is solid evidence showing that pricing signals lead to a real change in drinking behaviour. There is something wrong when you can buy wine for less than water or milk,” said Di Natale.
“The Gillard government is ignoring the advice of the preventative health task force and Henry tax review, both of which recommended looking at a more sensible taxation regime for alcohol.”
Di Natale said that both taxation experts and health experts are united on the need to discuss this issue.
Reform of alcohol taxation and a 'floor price' for alcohol have both been widely debated this year.