The government has announced an additional $1.1 million will be added to the $3.5 million Grape and Wine Sector Long-term Viability Support Package, delivered by Wine Australia, to support the resilience of the sector following the oversupply of red wine.
This funding will be used to support additional international market access and trade diversification activities, and research for new and innovative technologies and tools to control plant pests.
The funding in action
The government said this funding further underscores its commitment to the industry, which is also demonstrated in its support of the upcoming Australian Wine Industry Technical Conference.
The AWITC will see growers, winemakers and other industry participants come together in Adelaide for four days of knowledge sharing and network building in late July.
Under the Showcasing Australian Agriculture – Regional Trade Events Program, $550,000 in grant funding was presented to the Australian Wine Research Institute to expand the scale and reach of the AWITC in 2025 and 2028.
AWITC funding will facilitate new investment and connections, increase industry participation, and support greater engagement with key international trading partners.
Dr Mark Krstic, chair of AWITC and managing director of the Australian Wine Research Institute, explained how the funding would be utilised to assist the industry.
“The generous support of the triennial Australian Wine Industry Technical Conference will help us to support more growers and producers to attend this important event, providing exposure to the latest innovations and production techniques in viticulture and winemaking,” said Dr Krstic.
“At a time of real challenge for the sector, this support is both timely and invaluable. With over 60% of Australian wine exported to global markets, growing access to emerging markets like India is essential to the future of our wine industry.
“This funding support from the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry enables us to bring key international trade delegations to the Australian Wine Industry Technical Conference – an invaluable opportunity to strengthen relationships, showcase our technical expertise, and to grow the presence of Australian wine in these markets.”
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins, said the federal government recognises the challenges facing the sector, including the glut of red winegrapes.
“Funding for the Wine Sector Long-term Viability Support Package and the AWITC aims to enhance engagement with key international trading partners and support greater collaboration across the sector which we know is critical,” said Minister Collins.
“This funding will also continue our work on rebuilding international demand and new markets for wine while increasing the productivity and resilience at home.”
Dr Martin Cole, CEO of Wine Australia, welcomed the additional $1.1 million in funding, noting the acknowledgement from the government of “the critical role the grape and wine sector plays in regional communities and international trade”.
“It provides timely support as we work to adapt to shifting global conditions and grow demand for Australian wine around the world,” said Dr Cole.
“More support for innovation will help equip winegrape growers with the tools and technology needed to manage evolving crop protection challenges and build resilience in the vineyard.”
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