Wine producers are being invited to have a say about the Federal Government’s proposed $10 million Wine Tourism and Cellar Door Grant program.
“The government wants to support producers who add value and contribute to their communities by encouraging visitors to wine regions,” Financial Services Minister Kelly O’Dwyer said.
Assistant Minister for Agriculture Senator Anne Ruston and Minister O’Dwyer said a consultation paper had been released for wine producers to examine.
“Eligible producers will be able to access an annual grant of up to $100,000 per annum (plus GST) for their eligible sales,” Senator Ruston said.
“Australia’s wine industry is not only one of our signature export industries but also makes an important contribution to tourism, particularly in regional areas.
“It’s also one of the only agriculture-based industries where the majority of the value chain is located in Australia.”
Senator Ruston said there had been promising growth in overseas markets, with the value of Australian wine exports growing by 7 per cent to $2.22 billion in 2016.
“It’s important that this success continues to deliver economic and social benefits in the regions where these products originate by supporting producers’ cellar doors in attracting visitors,” she said.
“These grants will go a long way in helping achieve that.”
Minister O’Dwyer said the grants would complement a suite of measures developed with the wine industry to improve the wine equalisation tax (WET) rebate scheme.
“The government will separately consult on the draft legislation for the WET rebate reforms to ensure they deliver the best possible outcome for the Australian wine industry,” she said.
The program also complements the $50 million Export and Regional Wine Support Package that is being implemented by the Australian Grape and Wine Authority (AGWA) from 2016 through to 2019.
The consultation paper is available online and feedback can be submitted via winegrant@agriculture.gov.au
Submissions close on April 11.
