News

Following the signing of the New Zealand Free Trade Agreement and the resumption of bilateral relations between the Australian Government and France, Australia-EU FTA negotiations have resumed. It is anticipated these negotiations will be completed in the next 12-18 months. Negotiations on wine related issues are still proceeding in parallel to the main FTA discussions …

In December 2020, the Australian Government announced funding to support various sectors to expand and diversify their exports under its Agri-business Expansion Initiative (ABIE). Under the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment’s Agricultural Trade and Market Access (AMTAC) grants program, Australian Grape & Wine has secured funds to support grape and wine businesses impacted by the disruption of exports …

We have seen a large increase in membership of the Sustainable Winegrowing Australia (SWA) program and we are starting to gain traction with recognition both domestically and internationally. The program will continue to improve and is poised to become a major strength in underpinning Australia’s wine brand strategy. Sustainability is no longer a nice to …

The lack of clear guidance on next steps with the Wine Tourism and Cellar Door Grant is causing concern and questions from industry. Australian Grape & Wine is seeking urgent advice from the Australian Government about the status of the Wine Tourism and Cellar Door grants program. Under the program, producers who meet the eligibility …

Water is a big issue for the Labor Government and one where The Australian grape and wine sector will need to ensure we have a strong footprint in the decision-making process. Labor has committed $34m to establish a National Water Commission aiming to drive reform, future-proof water resources and increase policy transparency. Labor has also …

The Jobs and Skills Summit has come and gone. Although Australian Grape & Wine did not attend the summit, we participated in a Round Table with the Trade Minister immediately preceding the Summit to convey our messages on behalf of the grape and wine industry. The Government clearly understands our issues and the difficulties we …

The Government is bringing down a Budget on 25 October 2022. This Budget will be aimed at bringing forward funding for the Government’s priorities announced in the election campaign and on review of existing programs. Australian Grape & Wine is taking forward a very targeted ask for measures to grow demand and help growers and …

Over the past twelve months, members exporting to the UK will have been keeping a close eye on the UK Government’s proposals to amend alcohol duties. For those unfamiliar with the issue, we have been working with members and Australia’s High Commission in London to put forward our concerns about the practical implementation and potential …

Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) are a major contributor to improving export market access and removing barriers to trade. These are now more important than ever with the Australian grape and wine sector’s continued prioritised efforts to grow and diversify our export markets. We take a look at the status of some key FTAs that will …

Nominations for the 2022 Australian Biosecurity Awards are now open and close 5pm AEST 22 August 2022. The Awards recognise individuals, groups and organisations that have shown a commitment to supporting and promoting biosecurity. These awards bring to the fore the fact that everyone has a role to play in biosecurity. The eight categories for …