Growers and winemakers work together to improve commercial arrangements

As members continue to navigate through a myriad of challenges it’s great to see important work and advocacy continues to be addressed by our national body - Australian Grape and Wine (AGW).

AGW is the peak national body for the Australian wine industry and represents both wine grape growers and wine producers.  Following the 2019 ACCC Winegrape Market Study recommendations,  AGW has been working closely and collaboratively with the ACCC, a number of winemakers and grower groups to implement improvements in standard form contracts, particularly in relation to wine grape quality assessments, and how contractual disputes are managed.

In parallel to this work, Australian Grape and Wine is also focussed on improving and modernising the voluntary Australian Wine Industry Code of Conduct. A new committee has been appointed with equal representation of winemakers and growers.  All are working to build a strong united code which is fair, equitable and mutually beneficial to all. 

The Wine Grape Council of SA supports AGW to advocate on behalf of South Australian wine grape growers and is pleased with the progress being made in addressing what can be complex challenges.  We look forward to seeing a new industry Code of Conduct that is widely accepted and supported by all in future vintages. 

On another note, now is a fantastic time to get some native plants in the ground.  If your kids are on school holidays, why not get them planting and send us a picture.

​Lisa Bennier
Business Manager