Australians are drinking less beer because of the federal government's tough May budget.
Brewing giant SABMiller, which makes VB, Carlton Draught and Crown Lager, suffered a three per cent fall in volumes in Australia during the three months to the end of June.
The global company, which bought Foster's for $10.5 billion in 2011, said the budget's impact on consumer spending, and strong competition from other brewers, was impacting its brands.
"The soft volume and price performance was driven by continuing category pressure, reflecting increased negative consumer sentiment following the tough federal budget in May, along with continued competitive intensity," SABMiller chief executive Alan Clark said.
The company's net producer revenue in Australia in the three months to June, which excludes excise and other taxes, dropped by six per cent.
It continues a falling trend for major brands like VB, Carlton Draught and Crown Lager, as SABMiller has previously reported a fall in volumes in the year to March.
Industry research shows Australians are currently consuming less beer than they have in 67 years, while anecdotal evidence suggest craft beers are gaining favour over mainstream brews.
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