Move to Germany for a beer? Death and TAX!!!
While Germany is one of the cheapest places in the EU for a drink, Australia is one of the most expensive in the world. Recent figures for 2025/2026 show a stark contrast in pricing, taxation, and consumption habits.
? The Price Gap: Australia vs. Germany
Australia sits at the opposite end of the spectrum from Germany and Italy.
- Beer Prices: A domestic pint in a Sydney or Melbourne pub now averages $12.50 – $15.50 AUD. In Germany, the same volume often costs less than $8.00 AUD (€5.00).
- Spirits: Due to heavy taxation, a 700ml bottle of gin or whiskey that costs $30 AUD in Europe can easily cost $75+ AUD in Australia.
- The EU Benchmark: While German prices are 14% below the EU average, Australian alcohol prices are estimated to be 60%–80% higher than the global average.
?️ Why is it so expensive? (The Tax Factor)
The primary driver for high prices isn't just the "cost of living"—it’s the Automatic Excise Tax.
- Bi-Annual Hikes: Australia increases alcohol tax twice a year (February and August) based on inflation.
- World Rankings: Australia has the 3rd highest spirits tax globally.
- The 2025 Freeze: To help struggling pubs, the government recently implemented a 2-year tax freeze specifically for draught beer (kegs), though bottled beer and spirits prices continue to rise.
? Consumption: Who Drinks More?
Despite the "heavy drinking" stereotype, Australians consume less pure alcohol per capita than Germans.
- Germany (2022): 11.2 liters of pure alcohol per person.
- Australia (2025): Approx. 9.6 – 9.8 liters per person.
- The Trend: Australian consumption is at its lowest point in 50 years. High prices and a growing "sober curious" movement are driving this decline.
? Health & Trends
Australian health experts have moved toward stricter guidelines, mirroring the "no safe level" sentiment mentioned by the WHO.
- The "10-4" Rule: Current Australian guidelines recommend no more than 10 standard drinks per week and no more than 4 on any single day.
- Premiumization: Since it’s so expensive, Australians are drinking less but better—choosing one $18 craft cocktail over four cheap lagers.
OUCH!
