Wine regions across Australia stand to benefit from a $7.4 million investment boost for 21 international wine tourism projects, including $2.8 million from the International Wine Tourism Competitive Grants Program – a component of the Australian Government’s $50 million Export and Regional Wine Support Package.
Senator the Hon Anne Ruston, Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, said the response to the competitive grants program had been positive, with regional communities banding together to submit exciting wine tourism projects for their districts.
‘Our regions have really embraced the opportunity to expand and enhance Australia’s diverse and unique wine tourism experiences.
‘It’s about growing the reputation of Australia’s food, wine and tourism experiences.
‘Together with targeted marketing campaigns in China and the USA, the grants are creating a platform for the commercial success of our local brands and investing back into local jobs’, she said.
Wine Australia Chief Executive Officer Andreas Clark said the 21 successful wine tourism projects will diversify our wine tourism offering and create a lasting impression of Australian wine, in terms of visitor enjoyment and satisfaction.
‘It is important for the growth and success of our wine regions that we deepen engagement with international tourists and these successful projects will help attract more visitors to experience Australia’s wine offering’, he said.