There is some relief for grapegrowers with the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) in South Australia launching the fourth round of the Vineyard Resting Rebate next month.
Eligible producers will be able to apply for a $40 per hectare rebate to help cover the cost of purchasing Ethephon, a plant growth regulator that can be used to reduce grape production when applied at the right stage of vine development.
Funded by the Federal and State Governments through the South Australian Wine Recovery Program, the rebate will be available for up to 1,000 hectares per registered business (ABN) and will apply to Ethephon purchased between 1 July 2026 and 31 January 2027.
Designed to support growers who may not yet have a contract or have not been able to secure commercially viable prices for their 2027 grape crop, the Vineyard Resting Rebate supports producers to lower production expenses, reduce water use and avoid the costs associated with managing fruit that may not be harvested.
SA Primary Industries Minister Clare Scriven said, “Grapegrowers across South Australia have told us they are facing difficult decisions as they continue to deal with an oversupply of winegrapes and ongoing market pressures.
“SARDI research has shown that resting vines prevents waste of unharvested fruit in vineyards and mitigates risks with associated pest and disease pressures. It also provides growers with time to evaluate their options and make informed decisions.
“I encourage them to look at trialling vineyard resting and accessing the Ethephon rebate to reduce those costs.”
Participating growers can save up to an estimated $2,000 per hectare through reduced spending on irrigation, fertilisers, sprays and other vineyard management activities.
Resting vineyards also minimises fruit waste and reduces pest and disease pressures, while giving growers valuable time to assess their business options and future plans.
Research conducted by the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) in partnership with Wine Australia has found that Ethephon is an effective tool for reducing grape yields to the point where harvesting is not required.
Importantly, studies show that when applied at the end of flowering, vines remain healthy and retain the energy needed for the following season.
Research has also demonstrated that vineyards treated with Ethephon can return to normal commercial production the following year, with no detectable residues found in harvested fruit.
Across the state and the nation, the wine industry is facing significant pressure from global oversupply, declining grape prices, changing demand and ongoing impacts from previous international trade disruptions.
Federal Agriculture Minister Julie Collins said, “This support is part of the broader SA Wine Recovery Program, which continues to support grape growers and winemakers to strengthen the long-term sustainability and resilience of the sector.
“South Australian grapegrowers continue to face difficult market conditions, and we are working with industry and the South Australian Government to provide practical support.”
For more information about the rebate and eligibility requirements, visit pir.sa.gov.au/vineyard-resting-rebate.