Vneyard in the Tamar Valley region of Tasmania. Image: Jackie Davies/stock.adobe.com
Tasmania’s 2024-25 State Budget has unveiled a $1.5 million investment to support the future of its wine sector.
The budget commitment includes 1.5 million over three years to grow the wine sector through export opportunities, domestic market promotions and working with the Trade Tasmania Team in State Growth.
“We are providing $1.5 million over three years to drive growth and sustainability in Tasmanian wine production,” said minister for Primary Industries and Water, Jane Howlett.
“The funding will enable Wine Tasmania and the sector to facilitate access to labour, targeted skills and training across viticulture, winemaking and cellar door aspects.”
Of the 1.5 million, there has been $450,000 allocated to a specialist cool climate wine research hub.
“Of the $1.5 million, $450,000 has been earmarked for a specialist cool climate wine research hub, and a more detailed proposal development is underway through a collaboration between Wine Tasmania and the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture,” said Howlett.
More than 70 per cent of the wine produced in Tasmania is Pinot Noir or Chardonnay, with table wines accounting for 62 per cent and the remainder sparkling.
Howlett said Tasmania has a unique offering in terms of quality and premium farmgate prices for wines as compared to the mainland.
“We must help maintain the success of the Wine Industry, as well as demonstrate our sustainability credentials in an ever-changing world,” said Howlett.
“The Tasmanian Government, through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, is supporting our growers and makers.
“This sector provides a massive boost for tourism across our State, including the activities of cellar doors or agritourism.”