Victorian wine producers who attract tourism and boost their local economy will share in $10 million of grants under the Wine Tourism and Cellar Door Grants program.
There were 180 successful applicants this year spread across the country, including dozens from rural and regional Victoria.
Nationals Senator for Victoria and Minister for Agriculture Bridget McKenzie said the grants were focused on supporting local wine producers and introducing initiatives to help grow the number of visitors to wine regions like the King Valley and Rutherglen.
“Victoria has a reputation for beautiful wines—that’s why we see people travelling from far and wide to take our produce home,” she said.
“Cellar doors add value to Victoria’s North East by acting as a hub for tourism—regularly offering other locally produced goods and delicacies like chocolates and cheeses.
“We want visitors to know Rutherglen, Milawa and the King Valley are open for business.
“Alongside Wine Australia, we are committed to helping the Australian wine industry reach its full potential.”
Senator McKenzie said the grants were designed to support Australian wine producers who added value to their region through tourism.
“Australian wine is one of our most recognised and unique industries,” she said.
“Thousands of domestic and international tourists visit cellar doors across regional and rural Australia every year to sample world-class wines.
“Australian wine is ever increasing in popularity around the world, in 1991 the value of our wine exports was just $212 million, in 2019 the value of our wine exports is now over $2.82 billion.
“The Liberal and Nationals Government is continuing to support this industry and the growers who entice visitors throughout the year with their delicious produce.”
Australia is the 6th largest wine producer in the world, and the 5th largest wine exporter, with two thirds of Australian wine exported adding $2.82 billion to the economy annually.
For more information on the Wine Tourism and Cellar Door Grants program visit http://www.agriculture.gov.au/ag-farm-food/wine-policy/wine-tourism-cellar-door-grant.