Wine grape growers across the state who are experiencing challenges due to the current oversupply of red wine grapes will soon be able to access additional support.

The Rural Business Support Relief Fund will assist by providing financial support with immediate grants to those eligible of up to $1,500 to accommodate routine costs. 

This will be in conjunction with business financial planning.

The support aims to alleviate stress for grape growers, who have felt significant impacts owing to market disruption, severe weather events and natural disasters.

A further $60,000 in funding is also being provided to Rural Business Support to increase Rural Financial Counselling Services for the wine and viticulture industry.

The ethephon vineyard resting trial will also be extended to the next vintage to give growers time to make considered business decisions. 

By applying this growth regulating chemical, grape growers will be able to potentially save up to $2,000 per hectare in input, water, and management costs.

Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Clare Scriven says the wine industry has been heavily impacted by disrupted market conditions and global over-supply.

“I was delighted to see the lifting of the tariffs from China on Australian bottled wine.

“The removal of tariffs has been welcomed by our grape-growers and wine industry.

“The State Government is also supporting the wine and viticulture industry through a $1.85m re-engagement package that will assist the industry re-position South Australia as a market leader in China.”

For more information on support for wine grape growers in South Australia visit the website.