The Independent Brewers Association (IBA) has said it is delighted and encouraged that both the current NSW Government and Opposition have committed to working with the association on an Independent Brewing Strategy after Saturday’s election.
The IBA lobbied both parties for a Memorandum of Understanding to agree to support the independent brewing industry in NSW.
In a letter to the IBA, Minister Niall Blair said that if re-elected, the Liberal-National government will work with the IBA on a suite of initiatives through the NSW Department of Industry. Similarly Shadow Minister John Graham also wrote to the IBA and said that, if elected, the Labor government would sign a Memorandum of Understanding agreeing to work with the IBA on a variety of initiatives.
IBA Chair Jamie Cook said, “The government has recognised the potential impact of the independent beer industry on tourism, the economy and on community culture.”
“This is not only a great result for our New South Wales members, but it paves the way for other states to follow suit.”
In his letter Minister Blair said the LNP’s support will incorporate initiatives through the Food and Wine Tourism Strategy and Action Plan and the NSW Food and Beverage Manufacturing Industry Development Strategy. Part of this will be a sector capability profile to provide basic economic information about the contribution of independent brewing to the NSW economy.
John Graham stated that the Labor Party’s initiatives would include an agreement to implement an Independent Brewing Strategy, support for export market development, promoting the industry through a regional food and beverage tourism strategy and promoting NSW beer at government functions.