The Australian Grape & Wine pre-Budget submission calls for a targeted, time-limited investment to help address the structural challenges currently facing the grape and wine sector, including significant oversupply, declining global consumption, and financial pressure on growers and regional businesses. It proposes a $139.25 million package over three years focused on restoring market balance and supporting regional resilience. Key elements include:
• $60 million Wine Business Viability & Transition Program to support growers to transition, redevelop or exit unviable vineyards.
• $40 million Export Market Engagement Fund to rebuild demand and diversify export markets.
• $20 million Domestic Wine & Regional Tourism Stimulus to drive visitation and domestic wine sales.
• $15 million Mental Health and Rural Wellbeing Support for growers and communities experiencing sustained financial stress.
• $3 million Independent Business Viability & Productivity Scoping to provide growers with the information needed to guide transition decisions.
• $1 million Code of Conduct Implementation and Industry Education Program to support rollout of the mandatory winegrape purchasing code.
• $250,000 investigation and design of mechanisms to remove unsaleable ageing red wine from the system.
During the February and March parliamentary sitting weeks, Australian Grape & Wine CEO Lee McLean and Director of Government Relations Lisa Scott undertook an extensive advocacy program at Parliament House in Canberra. Meetings were held with Ministers, Shadow Ministers and Members of Parliament from key wine-producing electorates to outline the sector’s challenges and discuss the practical measures proposed in the submission.
These discussions have been constructive and well received, with many parliamentarians recognising the significant economic contribution of the grape and wine sector and the importance of supporting regional industries through structural adjustment. We will continue to engage closely with government in the lead-up to the Budget.
You can find a copy of our pre-Budget submission here.
