The South Australian government launched a new $250,000 Spirits Expansion Program to boost the state’s growing spirits sector.
Delivered in partnership with Distillers South Australia, the two-year program will run until June 2027 and aims to build export capability, drive consumer demand and create new commercial opportunities for South Australian distillers.
The number of distillers in the state has risen sharply since 2013, from 10 to more than 100, with many based in regional areas. In 2022, the distilling industry directly employed around 600 people, a figure projected to grow to 2,300 by 2031.
As the industry expands, the Spirits Expansion Program will help businesses develop plans to access domestic and international markets. Participants will be supported to prepare for trade missions and marketing activities to put their export plans into action.
The program will also align with Brand SA’s Buy SA. For SA campaign to raise consumer awareness and highlight South Australian distillers.
“This program is a positive next step towards enhancing South Australia’s enviable reputation for producing international award-winning, quality spirits and one which helps distillers scale to forge a strong domestic and global market position,” said George Georgiadis, president of Distillers South Australia.
“South Australian spirits are boldly crafted, unashamedly different and tell a unique story of traceability, provenance and innovation in the Australian distilling sector.
“We look forward to working with the Department of State Development to ensure SA spirits are served alongside premium South Australian food and beverage on menus and lips in our state and around the world.”
The Spirits Expansion Program draws on insights from Distillers South Australia’s export strategy, developed with support from the South Australian government, and aligns with the state’s Trade and Investment Strategy to 2030.
Distillers South Australia continues to promote, represent and support the sector while protecting its integrity.