Industry bodies Wine Australia and Wine Communicators of Australia are both rolling out programs designed to cultivate the future of Australian wine over the coming year.
For Wine Australia this involves a bursary giving emerging wine professions aged 35 years and under the opportunity to attend the Institute of Masters of Wine International Symposium 2027 in Adelaide from 15 to 18 April 2027.
Meanwhile WCA is giving wine industry leaders the opportunity to give back by volunteering as a mentor in its 2026 Wine Industry Mentor Program.
Apply for Wine Australia’s bursary:
10 successful applicants will be chosen from across viticulture, winemaking, research, marketing and trade to attend the 2027 symposium, which is widely acknowledged as a highlight of the global wine calendar.
The program is designed to remove cost barriers and provide access to learning and networks that are often out of reach early in a career. It represents a rare opportunity to learn alongside global leaders, explore emerging ideas around sustainability, markets and education, and build international networks that can shape long-term career pathways.
Emma Symington MW, Head of Education Development EMEA at Wine Australia, is one of two co-chairs organising the Symposium and was instrumental in establishing this bursary to ensure young and early-career wine professionals have an opportunity to participate.
“Young professionals want to be part of global conversations early and gain confidence that their ideas belong in the room, but often the cost to attend experiences like the International Masters of Wine International Symposium are out of reach for many,” said Symington. “As an organiser of this event, I genuinely want to see more young people attending.”
CEO of Wine Australia Dr Martin Cole adds that the bursaries are about building skills, confidence and global perspective.
“Young professionals are navigating a wine sector that is changing fast,” he said. “Access to global thinking, education and networks has never been more important. These bursaries are about backing people who are curious, committed and ready to contribute to the future of Australian wine.”
Applications are now open and close on 24 April. To apply or to learn more about the bursary program visit the dedicated webpage here.
WCA’s Wine Industry Mentor Program
Now in its eighth year, the mentorship program connects emerging wine professionals with some of the most experienced voices across the industry – from wine business, marketing and retail to sales, hospitality, education, winemaking, viticulture and supply management.
The industry body is calling on experienced Australian wine professionals able to spare a little time between June and November 2026 to apply to mentor one of more than 50 mentees.
By giving a small amount of your time, mentors are able to directly guide the next generation of wine professionals and contribute to building a stronger, more connected industry.
To apply simply fill in this short two minute expression of interest form prior to the end of March.
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