Spirits and Cocktails Australia CEO departs
Greg Holland has left his post as chief executive at Spirits and Cocktails Australia (SCA) following an organisational restructuring.
Spirits and Cocktails Australia is the national body that represents major spirits producers operating in the country.
Following the reelection of the Albanese government on 3 May, SCA will have a new organisational structure and ‘sharpened approach’ to advocacy.
The association said the changes would make it a more ‘focused and agile peak body’. The restructure has created a new executive director position, following a public recruitment process.
SCA will focus its activity primarily on federal engagement and regulation and draw upon greater member contributions in its day-to-day activities.
The association’s chair Dan Hamilton maintained that SCA will continue to advocate for the reform of Australia’s spirits excise system, which he called the ‘single largest barrier to growth facing spirits manufacturers operating in Australia’.
Excise on spirits in Australia increases twice a year, which has been a point of contention for the more than 700 craft distillers that operate in the country. Draft beer was recently spared from this increase for two years, with Holland criticising the government for excluding spirits.
The country has the third-highest tax on spirits in the world, behind Iceland and Norway.
Holland steps down
The organisational changes have prompted Holland to leave his post as chief executive after more than five years.
Hamilton thanked Holland for his dedicated leadership and advocacy: “On behalf of the board and membership of SCA, I would like to thank Greg for his significant contribution to advancing the growth of the Australian spirits industry and his commitment to meaningful policy reform.
“Greg took up this role in 2019, shortly before a period of notable uncertainty for our industry with the impact of Covid-19 on the hospitality sector.
“In his five and a half years as chief executive of SCA, Australia’s spirits industry has grown considerably. SCA has championed the economic contribution of spirits production and manufacturing in Australia and its potential to be an export powerhouse, akin to our wine industry.”
An interim executive director will be appointed until a permanent replacement has been chosen.
Holland said in a statement: “It’s been a privilege to serve this vibrant and resilient industry, advocating for the people, products and places that make our international and Australian spirits something truly special.
“From championing excise reform to amplifying our voice in Canberra and collaborating with passionate colleagues across the sector – there’s so much we’ve achieved together, and I’m proud to have played a part.
“None of this would have been possible without the insight, collaboration, and commitment of the board, our members and our team. Thank you to all the stakeholders and friends who’ve supported the journey. I’m especially grateful for the trust placed in me to lead this organisation through some pivotal years.
“As I hand over the reins, I do so with confidence in the direction we’ve set and in the industry’s ability to carry it forward. Thank you again – and I wish you all continued success in the vital work ahead. I’m looking forward to continuing in assisting in the development of public policy in Australia and overseas – and always open to a chat, a coffee or a dram.”
In February, a parliamentary inquiry recommended the creation of a Spirits Australia trade body, similar to Wine Australia.
The Australian government has predicted a AU$280 million (US$173.7m) annual revenue loss from spirits tax for 2024-25.
Though “more needs to be done”, distillers in Australia will receive an extra AU$50,000 (US$31,658) in tax relief from 1 July 2026.
Related news
Sullivans Cove unveils Australia’s ‘oldest’ single malt
