Victorian wine producers who attract tourism and boost the local economy will share in $10 million of grants under the Wine Tourism and Cellar Door Grants program.
There were 180 successful applicants this year spread across the country, from Cowaramup, Western Australia, to Mudgee, New South Wales.
Senator for Victoria, Sarah Henderson, said the grants were focused on supporting local wine producers and introducing initiatives to help grow the number of visitors to wine regions.
“Victoria has a reputation for beautiful wines – that’s why we see people travelling from far and wide to take our produce home,” said Senator Henderson.
“Cellar doors add value to our regions by acting as a hub for tourism – regularly offering other locally produced goods and delicacies like preserves, chocolates and cheeses.
“We want visitors to know that regional Victoria is open for business.
“Alongside Wine Australia, we are committed to helping the Australian wine industry reach its full potential,” Senator Henderson said.
Minister for Agriculture, Bridget McKenzie, said the grants were designed to support Australian wine producers who added value to their region through tourism.
“Australian wine is one of our most recognised and unique industries,” Minister McKenzie said.
“Thousands of domestic and international tourists visit cellar doors across regional and rural Australia every year to sample world-class wines.
“Australian wine is ever increasing in popularity around the world. In 1991 the value of our wine exports was $212 million, in 2019 the value of our wine exports is now over $2.82 billion.
“The Morrison Government is continuing to support this industry and the growers who entice visitors throughout the year with their delicious produce,” Minister McKenzie said.
Australia is the 6th largest wine producer in the world, and the 5th largest wine exporter, with two thirds of Australian wine exported, adding $2.82 billion to the economy annually.
For more information on the Wine Tourism and Cellar Door Grants program visit http://www.agriculture.gov.au/
5 November 2019