Diageo's Bundaberg Rum wrote an open letter to all the major political parties calling for fairer liquor laws ahead of Queensland's election.
The letter, which was also sent to Queensland media, called on all four of Queensland’s major political parties to "stand up and support a Queensland icon".
Despite being an economically important Queensland brand, Queensland liquor laws unfairly target Bundaberg Rum products, according to the chair of Bundaberg Distilling Co, Kylie McPherson.
“Last week we wrote an open letter to the ALP, LNP, PHON and KAP asking each of them to commit to fixing Queensland’s liquor laws and to treat all forms of alcohol equally,” McPherson said.
“Under our liquor laws, after midnight Queenslanders can go into a pub or bar and buy a large glass of wine or a pint of beer that could contain as much as 2.5 standard drinks, but can’t buy a can of Bundaberg Rum OP & Cola, 1.9 standard drinks.
“It makes no sense that a consumer can buy some drinks after midnight which have more standard drinks, but others with less standard drinks are banned.
“Bundaberg Rum support strong, fair and equal liquor laws. A more common sense approach will support Bundy and the wider hospitality industry, particularly as the state moves into the year of hosting the Commonwealth Games," McPherson said
“It’s time to stand up for what’s fair. It’s time for our leaders to stick up for a Queenslander.”
McPherson said Bundaberg Rum hoped to get some favourable responses to its request, as campaigning continues in the region in the lead‐up to Saturday’s election.
