A new Advisory Group established by the Federal Government to support the development of a mandatory Winegrape Purchases Code of Conduct has met for the first time.
The mandatory code is being introduced following an independent impact analysis led by Dr Craig Emerson.
His review found systemic contracting and market-power issues could not be addressed under the existing voluntary code for winegrape purchases.
The review recommended a mandatory code to deliver clearer and more consistent trading arrangements between winegrape growers and winemakers.
“Australia has a world class wine and grape sector and is an important contributor to regional economies and agricultural exports,” says Minister of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins.
“The Albanese Labor Government is committed to improving fairness, transparency and confidence in the winegrape supply chain.
“Establishing the Advisory Group is a practical step, ensuring that the code is designed with industry, not imposed on industry.
“I am confident that the experience and expertise of the advisory board members working collaboratively with the department will shape a balanced, workable and evidence-based code.”
The establishment of the group and the first meeting marks an important step to help strengthen fairness and transparency across the winegrape supply chain.
The new mandatory code will commence on 1 January 2027 following detailed design and consultation undertaken with the Advisory Group working closely with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.
The Advisory Group will be chaired by the Department and brings together representatives from across the wine and grape sector, including growers, winemakers and independent experts with experience in the voluntary code.
The Group will provide practical, evidence-based input into key elements of the mandatory code, including contract transparency, payment terms, dispute resolution and implementation arrangements.
The advisory group will meet regularly throughout 2026 to support the development of a workable and balanced mandatory code.
The advisory members include:
• Paul Derrico, CEO, Murray Valley Wine Growers.
• Jeremy Cass, CEO, Riverina Winegrape Growers.
• Amanda Dimas, Chair, Riverland Winegrape Growers Association.
• Ashley Keegan, CEO, Food and Beverage Australia Limited.
• Anthony Catanzariti, director of Wine and Grape Sourcing, Treasury Wine Estates.
• Brett McKinnon, chief technical officer, Vinarchy.
• Brigid Nolan, general manager, The Wine Group.
• Wayne Ellis, industry consultant, Ellis Castle Consulting.
“Since coming to office, the Albanese Labor Government has delivered more than $90 million in funding to support the grape and wine sector, acknowledging how critical this industry is to Australia,” Julie Collins said.
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