Looking to start up a brewery in Australia? There are several legal requirements that you need to consider before you take the plunge. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about the legal requirements for starting a brewery in Australia, so you can make sure you are compliant and can get your business up and running as quickly as possible.

Introduction

Brewing beer is a popular activity in Australia, with many people enjoying the craft of creating their own unique brews. But, if you want to turn your hobby into a business, you need to make sure you understand the legal requirements for starting your own brewery.

The process for setting up a brewery in Australia is quite complex and involves a lot of paperwork and compliance requirements. But, if you are willing to put in the effort, the rewards can be great. Not only will you be able to share your creations with the world, but you will also be able to build a successful business.

Licensing Requirements

You will need a business name and an ABN to do most of the necessary paperwork to start your new brewery. Once you have a unique name that not only catches the eye of your prospective patrons, make sure you have sifted through the likes of Google and the Independent Brewers Association as well as ASIC’s business name search to find oud out if anyone else is using that name.  The next step is to obtain the necessary licenses.

You will need to decide whether you want to

• Sell your product to other licensees
• Sell your product to the public
• Conduct product tastings
• Include drink-on-premises
• Show your product at industry liquor shows and producers markets
• Make and / or provide food for sale on premises

Licenses and permits required for all Australian brewery business include:

• Producer/Wholesaler’s License: A Producer/Wholesaler’s License is required in order to manufacture or wholesale beer in Australia. This license is issued by the Office of Liquor, Gaming, and Racing in each state.
• Excise Tax License: An Excise Tax License is required in order to produce beer that is subject to excise tax. This license is issued by the Australian Taxation Office.
• Beer Labelling Permit: A Beer Labelling Permit is required to label beer products for sale in Australia. This permit is issued by the Australian Department of Health.
• Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) permit.

The process for obtaining these licenses varies from state to state, so it is important to research the requirements in your area. In most cases, you will need to submit an application to the relevant state authority, along with any supporting documents, such as your business plan, proof of identity, and certified copies of your qualifications, where applicable. It’s a good idea to engage with a professional services provider who specialises in liquor licensing. This will save you time and ensure your applications are successfully submitted.

Once you have obtained the necessary licenses, you will then need to register your business with the Australian Taxation Office and obtain a Tax File Number.

Taxation and Compliance Requirements for Opening a Brewery

In addition to the licensing requirements, you will also need to be aware of the taxation and compliance regulations associated with starting a brewery in Australia. This includes registering for Goods and Services Tax (GST), which is required for all businesses that sell alcohol in Australia.

You will also need to ensure that you are compliant with the relevant liquor laws in your state, as these can vary from state to state. This includes ensuring that you are following the correct rules for advertising and promoting your business, as well as ensuring that you are providing a safe environment for customers.

Health and Safety Requirements for a Brewery

When starting a brewery in Australia, it is important to ensure that you are meeting all the necessary health and safety requirements. This includes making sure that your premises are safe and secure and that you have the necessary equipment to protect your staff and customers.

You will also need to register with the relevant authorities in your state to obtain the necessary permits and licenses. This includes registering with the local council in order to obtain the necessary building and planning permits, e.g. Development Authority (DA).

Basic Building and Construction Requirements for a Brewery

If you are setting up a brewery in Australia, you will need to ensure that your premises are up to the required standards. This includes ensuring that the building meets all relevant building codes and regulations.

If your desired premises is an old building, check whether it is Heritage listed. This may change the way you approach the building authorities and council for your permits. There may also be upgrades required to bring the building up to compliance standard for your operation, such as electricity in-feed and wiring, water in-feed and plumbing, waste disposal, packaging equipment, including bottles or cans, etc. Make sure the building will be able to contain and hold your equipment, kegged product and supplies at maximum capacity (i.e. it won’t break under the enormous weight of some brewery equipment).

Advertising and Promotional Requirements for a Brewery

Once you have your brewery up and running, you will need to start promoting your business in order to attract customers. This includes creating a website and social media presence, as well as developing marketing and advertising campaigns.

It is important to ensure that all of your advertising and promotion is compliant with the relevant laws and regulations. This includes ensuring that:

• All of your advertising is truthful and not misleading
• All of your promotional material is appropriate and inoffensive
• You have a privacy policy in place
• You have your trading terms and conditions visible or available

Legal Document Preparation Required for Opening a Brewery

Before you can start operating your brewery, you will need to make sure that you have the necessary legal documents in place. This includes a business plan, which outlines your goals and objectives, as well as any contracts and agreements that you need to enter into.

You will also need to make sure that you have the necessary insurance policies in place to protect yourself, your business, and your customers.

Next steps

Starting a brewery in Australia is an exciting challenge. It can also be a daunting task, as there are many legal requirements that you need to consider. But, if you are willing to put in the effort, the rewards can be great. We hope this guide has provided you with all the information you need to know about the legal requirements for starting a brewery in Australia, so you can make sure you are compliant and can get your business up and running as quickly as possible.

If you have any further questions about the legal requirements for starting a brewery in Australia, it is important to seek legal advice from a qualified lawyer. Good luck with your new business and happy brewing!