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Organisations across the wine sector
Understand the organisations and networks that contribute to Australia’s grape and wine sector, how their different roles connect, and where to find relevant information, representation and expertise.
An interconnected sector
Australia’s grape and wine sector connects agriculture, manufacturing, research and innovation, trade, exports and regional communities.
At its heart are the people and businesses that grow grapes, make wine and bring it to market. Around them is a broad network of representative organisations, governments, researchers, technical specialists, trade, professional networks and service providers.
Each plays a different role, but these roles are closely connected. Research can inform practices in vineyards and wineries. Government policy and regulation shape the environment in which businesses operate and access markets. Representative organisations bring sector perspectives to shared issues. Trade and distribution connect Australian wine with markets and customers, while suppliers, technical specialists and professional networks provide expertise, services and capability across the value chain.
No single organisation is responsible for the success of Australia’s grape and wine sector. Many challenges and opportunities require businesses and organisations with different responsibilities, expertise and perspectives to work together.
The sections below provide an overview of the main organisations and networks operating across the sector. Some organisations work across more than one area, so these groupings are a guide rather than fixed categories. Understanding these different roles can help you identify where to find representation, information, expertise, services or support.
Grapegrowers and wine producers
Grapegrowers and wine producers are at the heart of the sector, applying their skills, knowledge, experience and investment to grow grapes, make wine and operate businesses.
These businesses underpin the production of Australian wine and vary considerably in size and structure. Some specialise in grape growing or winemaking, while others operate across several parts of the value chain including production, packaging, sales or export.
Grapegrowers and wine producers also contribute practical knowledge and experience to broader sector activities, including research and innovation, regional development and shared sector priorities.
Representative associations and regional connection
Representative organisations provide ways for grape and wine businesses to contribute to shared sector issues and connect at national, state and regional levels.
Their roles vary and may include:
- representing and advocating for members
- contributing sector perspectives to government on policy and regulatory matters
- coordinating activity on shared priorities
- supporting regional and sector development
- providing information and networking
- supporting skills and capability
- promoting wine regions and wine tourism.
Australian Grape & Wine
The national association of grape and wine producers, Australian Grape & Wine represents its members on political, social and regulatory matters affecting the sector. It is a voluntary member-based organisation, funded by its members, and takes the lead in national advocacy and coordinating national industry strategy.
Australian Grape & Wine member committees and advisory groups provide structured channels for different parts of the sector to contribute perspectives across areas including research, sustainability, technology and innovation, marketing and packaging.
Australian Grape & Wine is Wine Australia's representative organisation under the Wine Australia Act 2013. Wine Australia engages with Australian Grape & Wine on sector priorities and activities relevant to our core functions.
Visit the Australian Grape & Wine website
State and regional associations
The Australian grape and wine sector is made up of 65 wine regions across seven states and territories. State and regional associations connect and represent grape and wine businesses within different parts of Australia.
Their activities reflect the needs of their members and regions and can span representation, regional development, knowledge sharing, capability building, wine promotion and tourism.
Government, trade and development
Australian, state and territory governments influence the environment in which grape and wine businesses operate through responsibilities across areas such as:
- agriculture and primary industries
- trade and market access
- biosecurity
- investment and economic development
- research and innovation
- environmental and sustainability policy
- regional development
- tourism.
Responsibility is spread across different portfolios, departments and agencies and varies between jurisdictions.
Government agencies also work with businesses, representative bodies, researchers and other organisations on issues or initiatives that cross traditional portfolio boundaries.
The organisation relevant to you will depend on the issue, location and type of support or information you need.
Explore government departments
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF)
Supports the growth, resilience and sustainability of Australia’s agricultural industries. Its responsibilities include agricultural policy and programs, biosecurity, agricultural trade and export opportunities, sustainability and agricultural levies. The department also works internationally to support market access and Australia’s interests in agricultural trade, food security, productivity and sustainability.
For the grape and wine sector, these responsibilities connect to the conditions in which businesses operate, including biosecurity, trade and exports, agricultural policy and sector levy and funding arrangements.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)
Promotes and protects Australia’s international interests and leads Australia’s foreign, trade and development policy. DFAT works with overseas governments and international partners to support trade and investment opportunities, international cooperation and the rules and relationships that underpin global trade. Its international network includes Australian embassies, high commissions, consulates-general and representative offices around the world.
For the grape and wine sector, DFAT’s role is particularly relevant to international trade, government-to-government relationships and market access issues affecting Australian wine in overseas markets.
Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade)
Supports Australian businesses to develop international trade opportunities, encourages investment in Australia and leads Australian Government tourism policy and programs.
For the grape and wine sector, Austrade’s role is particularly relevant to exports, international markets and the visitor economy. It helps Australian exporters understand and develop overseas markets through market information, advice, international connections and trade programs.
It also leads national tourism policy, programs and research, supporting the long-term development and growth of Australia’s visitor economy.
Chief Minister, Treasury and Economic Development Directorate
Supports economic growth and development across the ACT. Its responsibilities include economic development, visitor economy, business growth and investment, as well as coordinating government policy and building relationships with other governments and international markets.
For grape and wine businesses, its role is particularly relevant to the broader business and investment environment, economic development and opportunities to strengthen connections with domestic and international markets.
City and Environment Directorate
Manages a range of environmental, land and natural resource responsibilities across the ACT. Its work includes biosecurity, plant and animal management, land and water management, environmental protection and conservation, and environmental and natural resource projects.
Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD)
Protects, supports and develops the state’s primary industries and regional economies.
Its responsibilities span agriculture and regional development, including policies and programs that support primary industries, regional businesses and communities, and the management of natural assets.
For grape and wine businesses, the department is a key source of government information and services relating to agriculture, primary industries and regional development.
Investment NSW
Supports economic growth by connecting business, government and global markets. Its work focuses on industry development, innovation, investment and international trade, including helping NSW businesses invest, grow and expand internationally.
For wine businesses, this provides a connection to NSW Government trade, export, investment and broader industry-development activity.
Visit the Investment NSW website
Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW)
Leads work across climate change, energy, environment, biodiversity, heritage and water. Its responsibilities include reducing emissions, improving resilience to climate impacts, protecting biodiversity and managing water resources to support ecosystems, communities and industries.
These areas intersect with the long-term sustainability of vineyards, agricultural production and wine regions, particularly through climate resilience, water and environmental management.
Destination NSW
The NSW Government’s visitor economy agency, supporting the development and promotion of tourism across the state. Its work includes destination marketing, industry support, grants and funding, training, research and visitor economy insights. Wine regions, cellar doors, food and wine experiences and events form part of the tourism offering across regional NSW.
Department of Primary Industries
Supports the growth and protection of Queensland’s primary industries. Its responsibilities include agriculture, biosecurity, forestry, science and research. These functions are relevant to grape and wine businesses through agricultural production, plant health and biosecurity, and access to primary-industries research and information.
Visit the Department of Primary Industries website
Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ)
Is the Queensland Government’s dedicated international trade and investment agency, connecting Queensland businesses and industries with global opportunities. It supports Queensland businesses seeking to operate internationally and works with government, industry organisations and international networks to encourage investment and trade.
For wine businesses, it provides a pathway to government support for exports, international markets, investment and global business connections.
Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning
Supports economic development and the development of well-planned, resilient communities across Queensland. Its work encompasses economic and regional development, investment, infrastructure and planning, helping create the conditions for industries and businesses to establish, invest and grow.
These responsibilities intersect with wine-producing regions through regional economic development, infrastructure and wider industry growth.
Visit the State Development website
Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development
Has responsibilities spanning natural resources, manufacturing and rural and regional development. Its regional development functions support communities and businesses outside Queensland’s major urban centres, creating a connection to the economic conditions and services supporting agricultural and wine-producing regions.
Explore Queensland regional and rural development
Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI)
Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ)
Is the Queensland Government’s lead tourism marketing, experience development, destination development and major events agency. It works across government and with regional tourism organisations and industry to support tourism growth, promote Queensland destinations and experiences, and increase visitor expenditure. Wine, food and regional experiences form part of this broader visitor economy.
Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA)
Supports South Australia’s agriculture, food and wine industries and regional communities. Its responsibilities include primary industries policy and programs, biosecurity, industry development and regional economic development relevant to grapegrowers and wine businesses.
PIRSA oversees the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI).
The South Australian Government’s primary industries research organisation. Its research supports agriculture and food industries, including work relevant to viticulture, plant health, climate, sustainable production and new technologies.
Department of State Development (DSD)
Supports economic and industry development, investment, innovation and business growth in South Australia. Its responsibilities can intersect with the wine sector through industry development, investment, skills, exports and opportunities for South Australian businesses.
Green Industries SA
Supports South Australia’s transition to a circular economy, with a focus on resource efficiency, waste reduction and sustainable production. Its work can be relevant to grape and wine businesses seeking to reduce waste and improve the use and recovery of materials and resources.
Visit the Green Industries SA website
Department for Environment and Water (DEW)
Manages policies and programs relating to South Australia’s environment, water and natural resources. Its responsibilities are particularly relevant to wine regions where water availability, environmental management, biodiversity and climate resilience affect vineyard and regional sustainability.
South Australian Tourism Commission (SATC)
Supports the development and promotion of South Australia as a visitor destination. Wine regions, cellar doors, food and wine experiences and regional events contribute to South Australia’s visitor economy.
Agriculture Victoria (Ag Vic)
Supports Victoria’s agriculture sector through research, development, biosecurity, technical information and industry services. Its work is relevant to grapegrowers through areas such as plant health, pests and diseases, climate, production systems and agricultural research.
Global Victoria
Supports Victorian businesses seeking to access international markets and develop trade opportunities. Its services can be relevant to wine businesses exploring export markets, international business connections and trade opportunities.
Victorian Government environment, climate and water services
Victorian Government responsibilities for environment, climate, water and natural resources affect the conditions in which vineyards and wine regions operate. Relevant programs and services can support areas including water management, climate adaptation, environmental sustainability and natural resource management.
Visit Victoria
Supports the development and promotion of Victoria’s visitor economy. Wine regions, cellar doors, events and food and wine experiences form part of the state’s regional tourism offering.
Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development
Is responsible for regulating and advancing Western Australia’s agricultural and food industries, fisheries and regional development. For grape and wine businesses, its responsibilities intersect with agriculture, food production, biosecurity and the development of regional industries and economies.
Invest and Trade Western Australia
Helps businesses and investors engage with Western Australian industries and opportunities. Its focus areas include primary industries, tourism and events. Its services connect businesses with trade and investment opportunities, international markets, potential partners and government programs and initiatives.
For Western Australian wine businesses, this provides a pathway to state government support for international trade, investment and business growth.
Visit the Invest and Trade website
Department of Water and Environmental Regulation
Manages and regulates Western Australia’s environment and water resources. Its responsibilities include water services and environmental regulation, helping manage water resources for communities, ecosystems and economic development while protecting environmental values and supporting sustainable development. These responsibilities have relevance to vineyard production and wine regions through water availability and management, environmental regulation and long-term sustainability.
Visit the Dept of Water and Environmental Regulation website
Department of Energy and Economic Diversification: Science and Innovation
Supports research, development, science and innovation across Western Australia. Its Science and Innovation activities include connecting industry, research organisations, universities and government; supporting research and development; attracting investment in innovation; and building the capability and sustainability of regional economies.
This provides a broader innovation environment in which agricultural, food and wine-sector research and technology development can take place.
Explore WA science and innovation
Tourism Western Australia
Is responsible for growing Western Australia’s tourism industry by promoting the state as a holiday and events destination. Wine regions, cellar doors, food and wine experiences and regional events form part of Western Australia’s visitor economy, connecting wine businesses with visitors from Australia and overseas.
Research and technical expertise
Research and technical organisations contribute scientific knowledge, specialist expertise and practical solutions across areas including but not limited to:
- grape growing
- winemaking
- sustainability
- technology
- biosecurity
- production.
Research can involve universities, government research agencies, specialist research organisations, technical experts and grape and wine businesses. Collaboration between these groups helps connect scientific knowledge with practical experience and test ideas under real-world conditions.
The organisations involved vary between research areas and projects. Wine Australia’s Research Project Library includes information about research projects and the many organisations involved in delivering them.
Regulation, standards and market access
Australian wine businesses operate within Australian regulatory requirements and, when exporting, the requirements of importing markets. Changes to technical standards, regulation and trade conditions can affect whether and how Australian wine enters those markets.
Wine regulation and market access involve collaboration between governments, regulatory bodies, representative organisations, grape and wine businesses and other sector organisations.
Their different responsibilities contribute to areas including product integrity, wine standards and labelling, technical requirements, Australian wine exports and access to international markets.
Australia also participates in international organisations and forums that support cooperation, information sharing and technical discussion on wine regulation and international trade, including:
The International Wine Federation (FIVS)
International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV)
As well as relevant subcommittees and expert groups. These relationships support communication and information sharing on issues affecting market access and regulation.
Wine trade and market participants
Australian wine reaches customers through a broad network of businesses and wine professionals operating across domestic and international markets.
These include:
- exporters and importers
- distributors and wholesalers
- retailers and online sellers
- restaurants, bars and other hospitality businesses
- buyers
- sommeliers
- other wine trade professionals.
The boundaries between these roles are not always fixed. Some wine producers manage their own sales, distribution and exports, while others work with businesses specialising in particular channels or markets. Different participants make decisions about which wines are imported, distributed, ranged, recommended or sold through on-premise and off-premise channels.
Trade relationships can also connect Australian wine businesses with market knowledge and feedback about customers, channels and market conditions.
Learn more about professional organisations operating within the wine trade, including:
Sommeliers Australiarepresenting and supporting the sommelier profession in Australia.
Court of Master Sommeliersproviding education and professional development for sommeliers and hospitality professionals.
Institute of Masters of Wine an international professional organisation connecting Masters of Wine working across areas including trade, education, production and communication.
Professional and industry networks
Professional, technical and membership organisations bring together people and businesses with shared interests or areas of expertise across the grape and wine sector.
These networks contribute specialist knowledge, professional development, events, networking and connections between people and businesses with shared areas of expertise or interest.
They include organisations supporting viticulture and oenology, wine communication, professional development and other specialist areas.
The Australian Society of Viticulture and Oenology (ASVO)
provides a professional network for people working in grape growing and winemaking, supporting technical knowledge, professional development and connections across viticulture and oenology.
Wine Communicators of Australia (WCA)
connects people working in wine communications, media, marketing, education and related fields.
Australian Women in Wine (AWIW)
A professional network connecting and supporting women working across the Australian grape and wine sector.
Suppliers and service providers
Grapegrowers, wine producers and other businesses rely on suppliers and service providers for specialist products, technology, infrastructure and expertise across the value chain.
This can include vineyard and winery equipment, technology, laboratory and technical services, packaging, logistics and professional services.
Wine Industry Suppliers Association (WISA)
The Wine Industry Suppliers Association is a national membership organisation representing businesses that provide products and services to the Australian wine sector.
Working together across the sector
Australia’s grape and wine sector depends on organisations and businesses with different but complementary roles.
A single issue can involve several parts of the sector. Research may bring together growers, winemakers, scientists, government and technical organisations. Market access can involve exporters, government, regulatory bodies and representative organisations. Regional development can connect businesses, associations, research, tourism, government and local communities.
Collaboration allows different parts of the sector to contribute their expertise and perspectives to shared challenges and opportunities.
The One Grape & Wine Sector Plan provides a sector-wide framework for shared priorities and collective action.
Where Wine Australia fits
Wine Australia is one organisation within this broader, interconnected sector.
Wine Australia is a Commonwealth statutory authority with responsibilities across Research, Innovation and Adoption; Market Development; and Regulatory Services. Its role is distinct from government departments, representative organisations, research providers and commercial businesses.
Wine Australia works with different parts of the sector in delivering its functions, including grape and wine businesses, governments, representative organisations, research and technical organisations and trade.
For more information about Wine Australia's role
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About Wine Australia
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Explore what we do
Explore how Wine Australia supports the grape and wine sector through research, innovation and adoption, market development and regulatory services.
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Corporate
Learn about levies and funding
Wine Australia receives funding from several sources, including compulsory sector levies and charges, fees, user-pays contributions and Australian Government funding. If you pay a grape or wine levy or the Wine Export Charge, use the information below to understand where your contribution goes and what it supports.