Program to bolster recovery, sustainability, and market growth for grape growers and wine producers till 2027
Australia has announced the extension of the SA Wine Recovery Program to 2027, backed by $3.1 million in federal funding, to support South Australia’s wine industry in recovering from recent adverse events and market disruptions.
The program includes a third round of the Resting Vineyard Rebate, enabling growers to temporarily rest parts of their vineyards to reduce costs and assess future viability. Existing program streams will also continue, focusing on improving vineyard waste management, boosting domestic market demand, and enhancing regional grape and wine capabilities. This includes addressing the safe disposal of Copper Chrome Arsenate-treated posts and extending support for sustainability credentials, which have already assisted 75 wine businesses across the state.
With Australian domestic consumers representing the largest market for grape growers and wine makers, the extended program will feature a 12-month campaign to raise the profile of South Australia’s wines.
The region produces 80% of Australia’s premium wine and 50% of all bottled wine, exporting over 397 million litres overseas in 2024-25, valued at $1.8 billion. The initiative stems from recommendations by the Viticulture and Wine Sector Working Group, with input from industry bodies such as the South Australian
Wine Industry Association and Wine Grape Council of South Australia. It is part of broader efforts by Australia to support the wine sector, including a $4.6 million Grape and Wine Sector Long-term Viability Support Package and $30 million for the Wine Tourism and Cellar Door Grant Program, which has already provided $3.8 million to 76 South Australian businesses. These measures aim to help grape growers and wine producers recover from challenging conditions while strengthening the industry’s long-term productivity and sustainability.
