Brewers have launched a last-minute bid for the government to stop a price hike on beer that kicks in on Monday.
The alcohol excise is expected to increase between 2-3 per cent on February 3, with independent brewers warning the tax hike could push them over the brink.
It means a pint of beer could rise to about $15 as early as next week.
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In the eleventh hour, the Brewers Association of Australia has made a submission to the Treasurer's Budget consultation process.
"On behalf of brewers and beer drinkers across Australia we are asking for urgent action to address the high rates of beer tax," Brewers Association of Australia CEO John Preston said.
"We already have one of the highest beer tax rates in the world – there is no need for it to keep going up twice a year.
"Australians are doing the right thing and drinking responsibly."
Preston says the increase in tax will make it impossible for Aussies to enjoy a cold one at an affordable price.
"All these tax hikes are doing is making it increasingly unaffordable for Australians to head out to their local for a beer.
"Last year the newly elected Labour Government in the United Kingdom used its first Budget to continue the reductions in beer tax that were started under the previous Conservative government.
"We believe the Treasurer should follow the example of his British counterpart and give much-needed relief to beer drinkers and our hospitality sector."
The alcohol tax is a revenue stream that brings in millions of dollars for the government.
