Applications have opened for the 2026 Wine Industry Mentor Program, with the national initiative returning to support the next generation of talent across Australia’s grape and wine sector.
Applications are open and will close on 12 April, 2026, for the program, which is designed to accelerate the development of early-career professionals by pairing them with experienced industry leaders across a broad cross-section of disciplines, including viticulture, winemaking, logistics, marketing, sales, hospitality and media.
Since launching in 2019, the program has supported close to 300 participants, building capability and connections across the industry. The 2026 intake will again run as a structured six-month program from June to November, combining one-on-one mentor sessions, targeted professional development and access to a dedicated online mentoring platform.
The 2025 intake included Hylton Li, who said: “Joining the WCA mentorship program was a career-defining experience. During this program, I was able to qualify for two distinct roles within the wine industry, a goal I wasn’t sure was achievable before we started.
“Beyond the professional wins, [my mentor] created a space where I felt truly supported. I have invited her to attend my wedding as a testament to how meaningful this relationship has become.”
Supported by key industry bodies including Wine Communicators of Australia, Wine Australia, University of Adelaide, Australian Society of Viticulture and Oenology and Wine Industry Suppliers Association, the program aims to strengthen collaboration and long-term capability across the sector.
Following its introduction last year, a limited number of international mentors will again participate in 2026, connecting Australian mentees with experts from the USA and France.
Another 2025 mentee, Emma Hart, said: “The space you created for reflection helped me move from reactive to proactive thinking, and your encouragement to approach important leadership conversations made a genuine difference and sparked a fire in me that simply wasn’t there before.”
Participants in previous years have reported strong outcomes, including career progression, expanded professional networks and increased confidence, reinforcing the program’s role in supporting the long-term growth of Australia’s wine industry.
Mentee and Mentor applications can be made through the Wine Communicators of Australia website. Wine industry professionals who are curious about applying can join the online WCA Mentor Program Q&A Session on Thursday 2nd April, 12.30 – 1pm ACST / 1 – 2pm AEST. Instructions to register are available on the website link above.
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