Blokes who like their Bundy and coke in a bottle are going to suffer thanks to the Rudd Government's tax increase on ready-to-mix drinks (RTDs), federal Opposition leader Brendan Nelson said.
The coalition said the expected $3bn in extra revenue generated by the 70% tax hike on alcopops would not curb consumption of the popular drinks.
Government data showed consumption would continue to increase by 10% over the next five years, making the plan a tax reap and not a health initiative, Dr Nelson said.
"Instead of buying a measured, ready-to-drink dose of an alcohol mixer, they're now buying full bottles of spirits,” he said.
The move by Prime Minister Kevin Rudd to curb binge drinking, especially by young women, will only result in penalising others who enjoy pre-mixed drinks.
"While it's still a problem, it's actually declined over the last six years," Dr Nelson said.
"And you have to ask yourself, what does Mr Rudd have against blokes who drink Bundy and bourbon?"