Distilling Information & Legal Notice

Last Updated: November 2025

Important Information About Distilling in Australia

At H&S Home Brew Supplies, we sell distilling equipment, essences, and supplies for a variety of legal purposes. However, it’s essential that all customers understand the legal requirements surrounding distillation in Australia.

What is Legal in Australia

WITHOUT a licence, you may:

  • Own and operate a still with a capacity of 5 litres or less for:
    • Distilling water
    • Extracting essential oils
    • Creating herbal tinctures (non-alcoholic)
  • Purchase distilling equipment and essences
  • Brew beer, wine, cider, and mead for personal consumption

WITH an ATO Excise Manufacturer Licence, you may:

  • Distil spirits for commercial purposes
  • Own and operate stills of any capacity
  • Produce spirits for sale (with appropriate state licensing)

What Requires an ATO Licence

The following activities REQUIRE an excise manufacturer licence from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO):

  • Distilling any alcohol intended for consumption, regardless of still size
  • Distilling alcohol even for personal use in your own home
  • Owning or operating a still with a capacity greater than 5 litres, even if used only for water or essential oils

Important Note: The ATO does not grant licences for distilling spirits for personal consumption. Licences are only issued for commercial operations where production can be monitored and appropriate excise duty collected.

Penalties for Unlicensed Distilling

Distilling alcohol without an appropriate licence is an offence under the Excise Act 1901. Penalties may include:

  • Fines of up to 5 times the amount of duty that would have been payable
  • Criminal prosecution
  • Seizure of equipment

Our Products

H&S Home Brew Supplies sells distilling equipment and essences that may be used for:

  • Licensed commercial distilling operations
  • Water distillation and purification
  • Essential oil extraction
  • Educational purposes
  • Other legal non-alcoholic applications

We do not encourage or condone the unlicensed distillation of alcohol.

Need More Information?

Australian Taxation Office (ATO)

  • Website: www.ato.gov.au
  • Excise information: Search for “excise manufacturer licence” on the ATO website
  • Phone: 13 28 66

Applying for a Licence
If you are considering commercial distilling, you can apply for an excise manufacturer licence through the ATO. The licence is free, but you must pay excise duty on all spirits produced for consumption.

Our Commitment

H&S Home Brew Supplies is committed to:

  • Operating within all Australian laws and regulations
  • Providing accurate information about legal requirements
  • Supporting legitimate homebrewing and licensed distilling operations
  • Educating our customers about responsible practices

Disclaimer

This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Laws and regulations may change. We recommend all customers:

  • Consult the ATO website for current regulations
  • Seek professional legal advice if uncertain
  • Ensure full compliance with all federal, state, and local laws

By purchasing distilling equipment or supplies from H&S Home Brew Supplies, you acknowledge that you understand and will comply with all relevant Australian laws.

Last Updated: November 2025