Australian craft brewers are facing significant challenges due to a heavy tax regime, which is now the third highest globally, compounded by high inflation. The beer excise, which increases every six months, has risen by over 17% since early 2020, affecting both brewers and consumers. Despite lobbying efforts by the Independent Brewers Association (IBA) for a freeze on the excise, the government has not responded. The IBA is now urging consumers to advocate for more affordable beer and plans to seek an investigation by the ACCC, as well as push their agenda in the upcoming federal election. Major brewers like Lion and Carlton United Breweries continue to dominate the market, making it difficult for independent brewers to compete.