The cost of living is something we're all acutely aware of, especially when it comes to enjoying the simple pleasures in life, like a cold pint at the local pub. But for some Melbourne pub-goers, the price of a refreshing beverage has reached new heights, sparking outrage and disbelief among the community.


A recent revelation on social media has left many Australians stunned. A picture shared on Reddit showed the receipt for two pint-sized glasses of ginger ale at a Melbourne pub, with a staggering total of $42.40. The post quickly became a hot topic, with users debating whether the ginger ale was alcoholic or non-alcoholic, but the consensus was clear: the price was exorbitant either way.


The shock of such a high price for what many consider a staple pub offering has led to a broader discussion about the cost of dining and drinking in Australia. One Reddit user expressed their dismay, stating that the price actually 'frightened' them. In contrast, others shared their strategies for avoiding such steep costs, like opting for water instead of pricier drinks or simply refusing to pay the high prices.


The conversation didn't stop there. Patrons from other cities chimed in, comparing prices across Australia. One user noted that in Sydney, pints of beer were generally priced between $10-$12 and large coffees at $4.50, prompting questions about whether Melbourne's prices were a result of higher overheads or just plain gouging.

For those moving to Melbourne from places like Ireland, where pints are already not cheap, the prices were a cause for concern. And it wasn't just the ginger ale that was causing a stir. Another user recounted their experience of being charged $56 for two vodka raspberries at a club, further highlighting the unpredictable and often inflated costs of alcoholic beverages in some establishments.

The issue of high drink prices is compounded by the fact that the average cost of alcohol in Australia rose by 6.6 per cent between August 2023 and 2024, according to the Consumer Price Index. This increase followed a significant jump in the cost of beer, with pints tipping to $15 as of February this year.


John Preston, the chief executive of the Brewers Association of Australia, has pointed out that Australia has the third highest beer tax in the world, trailing only behind Norway and Finland. The tax on a slab of beer, which includes excise tax and GST, now accounts for around half of its cost, which is approximately $55.

The excise tax on spirits and beer is a variable rate that changes twice a year, in line with inflation adjustments in August and February. This tax, while intended to adjust for economic changes, has a direct impact on the prices consumers pay at the pub.

For our members at the Seniors Discount Club, these prices might seem particularly outrageous, considering the days when a pint was a much more affordable outing. It's important to stay informed about these changes and to consider how they might affect your social activities and budget.

We'd love to hear from you about your experiences with the rising costs of dining and drinking out. Have you noticed a significant increase in the price of your favourite beverages? How has this affected your social habits? Share your thoughts and any tips you might have for enjoying a night out without breaking the bank. Let's raise a glass (of reasonably priced drinks) to find solutions together!