I have found the same. I fly SYD-CNS monthly and always get the flexi fare. Used to get food and a beer for years. However, now that is gone, you get a cracker and have to pay for the beer. Just flew SYD-GOO last weekend and it was the same. I called VA and they told me, after spending 10 minutes talking to supervisor, that you only get drinks between 5-7pm, and my flight was 7:05 pm!
But the VA rep told me that they have now started to give snacks to saver fares, which she told me was an improvement? But I told her that fly flexi and I have just gotten downgraded, from food and drink to snack, and I pay 2 x price for that. To which she had no comment at all.
I think business travelers that pay extra should get something a little better. VA started off well with this some years ago, but it now looks like they don't want business travelers that pay 2 x price, but rather more 1/2 paying customers, who get rewarded with extras.
VA please pick up your game!