The state government is backing Western Australia’s distilling industry with the release of a new roadmap aimed at raising the profile of the state’s premium spirits on the global stage.
The WA Distilling Industry Strategy 2025–2030 was launched at the Perth Royal Distilled Spirits Awards, with a focus on building brand recognition and tripling sales over the next five years.
This first-of-its-kind strategy for WA was developed by the Australian Distillers Association and WA Distillers Guild, with support from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.
“Western Australia’s distilling industry embodies the innovation, quality, and entrepreneurial spirit that define our State’s economic future,” said agriculture and food minister Jackie Jarvis.
“The WA Distilling Industry Strategy builds on the momentum of this exciting emerging industry, and will support local businesses to grow and diversify, capture new markets and create new jobs.”
The strategy makes recommendations across four priority areas: advocating through collaboration and supportive policy, advancing through industry development, promoting WA spirits nationally and internationally, and improving access to domestic and export markets.
“Developed through extensive consultation with producers across the State, this roadmap captures the priorities and aspirations of WA distillers and positions them to thrive in premium markets, both locally and globally,” said president of Australian Distillers Association Holly Klintworth.
WA spirits are noted for their provenance, with more than 90 per cent of distillers using local ingredients. The state is home to around 90 distillery businesses, almost half of which are located in regional areas.
More than three quarters of these producers specialise in gin, followed by vodka, whisky, premixed spirits, limoncello, rum, brandy and other varieties.
A working group will now prepare an implementation plan to deliver early outcomes and support longer-term growth towards a strong and sustainable industry.
“This strategy is a landmark moment for WA’s distilling industry – crafted by industry, for industry,” said Western Distillers Guild president James Young.
“Our producers are united by a commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability, and this strategy gives us a shared path forward.
“The strategy highlights our collective ambition and showcases WA’s potential to become a global leader for premium spirits.
“We look forward to working with industry and government to bring its vision to life.”