National’s Senator for Victoria, Bridget McKenzie and head of Campbell’s Wines in
Rutherglen and Wine Makers Federation of Australia Board Member, Colin Campbell
said today changes to the Wine Equalisation Tax (WET) Rebate will better assist
grape growing, winemaking and associated tourism in regional Australia.
The reforms come on the back of extensive consultation with the wine industry and
are the result of the industry calling for action to support the Australian
wine industry by addressing distortions in the market through the misuse and
exploitation of the WET Rebate scheme.
Senator McKenzie said key changes to the eligibility criteria to protect the integrity
of the WET Rebate scheme mean that eligible producers must own 85% of the
grapes at the crusher used to make the wine and maintain ownership throughout
the wine making process.
The Rebate must be limited to branded packaged wine, in a container not exceeding
5L and branded with a registered trademark for domestic retail sale and the
Rebate claims must be better linked to the WET being paid.
“The Australian wine industry is more than just a great drop. It’s a major employer,
manufacturer and driver of tourism in regional communities. These reforms along
with our Budget commitment of $50 million to promote Australian wine
internationally and domestically will be a springboard for growth,” Senator
McKenzie said.
Mr Campbell said the changes are a great outcome that will ensure the viability of
the wine industry at all levels.
“I thank the government for listening to our concerns and working with the
Winemakers Federation of Australia to achieve these outcomes.
“The wine industry is an important attraction to regions around Australia, including
the famous Rutherglen region, which benefit from the tourists that come to
visit our wineries,” Mr Campbell said.
The final WET Rebate reforms will be introduced into Parliament next year with the
new eligibility criteria applying from 1 July 2018.