Jo Haylen, Member for Summer Hill, has congratulated local brewers on their successful campaign to cut red tape for the industry, allowing tap rooms to operate as small bars.

This is a significant win for local brewers and the Inner West Brewery Association, who have been calling for reforms to help grow the industry, create jobs, and attract tourism in the inner west.

Current rules restrict the operation of micro-breweries to tasting room licenses, restricting service to tasting boards. The trial announced this week would allow local micro-breweries to operate as small bars with up to 100 patrons, making it easier for microbreweries to open, operate and grow.  

NSW Labor called for the changes in 2017 as part of its 5 point plan to support the burgeoning industry.

It is estimated that micro-breweries create over 200 direct jobs and bring millions of dollars investment and business to the inner west.

Quotes attributable to Jo Haylen MP, Member for Summer Hill

“This is a great win that will benefit brewers and beer-lovers across the inner west.

“Local brewers make a huge contribution to our local economy and to the character of our suburbs, but they’ve been held back by government red tape.

“Brewers should have the certainty they need to build their local business and I’m thrilled that all three levels of Government are now working together to support the industry right as it is taking off.

“There is so much more we can do to promote and support this exciting industry and I look forward to working with everyone to give micro-brewers a leg up.”