Dr Craig Emerson has been appointed to lead an independent impact analysis of the wine and grape sector's regulatory options concerning fair trading, competitive relationships, contracting practices and risk allocation.
This independent analysis follows concerns raised by the grape and wine sector in the Food and Grocery Code Review, and through consultations undertaken by the Viticulture and Wine Sector Working Group.
This independent analysis is part of the $3.5 million support package announced by the Government in June, to be delivered by Wine Australia, to support the long-term viability of the sector.
Australia's wine industry is made up of over 2,000 wineries and 6,000 grape growers, across 65 wine regions.
Dr Emerson's report will examine whether there is market failure in the grape and wine sector and provide advice about regulatory or other interventions.
Grape growers, wine makers and retailers will be invited to have their say on this important issue. Information on how to participate will be shared through Wine Australia and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry in the coming weeks.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins:
"We know our grape and wine sector has faced some very tough times.
"That's why our Government has worked hard for the industry to open new markets for trade diversification like India, the United Kingdom, Thailand and the reopening of China.
"While the reopening of the China market is a great step forward for the industry, there is still work to be done in response to the oversupply of wine and to understand the general trading environment for grape growers and wine makers."
"Following the completion of the analysis, the Australian Government will consider Dr Emerson's recommendations to ensure a fair and functioning wine, grape and retail market."
