Dr Craig Emerson’s independent Review of Regulatory Options for the Wine and Grape Sector was released today, outlining a range of recommendations aimed at addressing market imbalances and improving commercial practices across the sector. The report was initially scheduled for release in early 2025.
Australian Grape & Wine (AGW) welcomed its release, noting that the report identifies significant power imbalances in the supply chain. The review also recommends the introduction of a mandatory Code of Conduct for winegrape purchases, among other reforms designed to improve transparency, payment terms, and dispute resolution processes.
AGW highlighted that the Government has not issued a response to these recommendations at this time.
The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins, announced the publication of the review in a release to media.
“Dr Emerson’s analysis contains 14 key recommendations which the Government will consider closely, working with industry and stakeholders to establish the best way forward,” said the statement.
Chief Executive of Australian Grape & Wine, Lee McLean, said the organisation would now take the time to work through the recommendations in detail, in consultation with members and stakeholders across the sector.
“This is a substantial report tackling complex issues, and we acknowledge the significant work undertaken by Dr Emerson and his team,” McLean said.
“We recognise the need for change and reform in some areas of our sector and will work constructively with the Australian Government as it considers its response. It is essential that industry has a strong voice in the next phase to ensure any measures brought forward are fit for purpose, deliver real benefits for both grape growers and winemakers, and avoid any unintended consequences.”
McLean noted that the review process had brought forward a wide variety of views from across the industry, reflecting the diversity of business models and regional contexts that make up the Australian grape and wine sector.
“Striking the right balance will be critical. What works in one region or business model may not be appropriate in another, and Dr Emerson has clearly acknowledged that in the consultation process,” he said.
Australian Grape & Wine said it supports the recommendation to establish a working group to guide the design and implementation of reforms that may be adopted by the government, but industry needs a seat at the table in this process.
“This is an opportunity to create a more transparent, fair and resilient sector. With meaningful industry involvement, we can get the settings right for long-term success,” McLean said.
The release of the review comes after Alex Cannon-Leyson, general manager of Riverland Wine in South Australia, noted the delay in the report’s release in an interview with ABC Riverland last week.
The full Review of Regulatory Options for the Wine and Grape Sector is available here.
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