Hugh Schuitemaker, Murray Pioneer
The Riverland’s Federal MP says recommendations from an industry report examining dealings between wineries and grape growers should be implemented “as quickly as possible”.
Wine Australia on Monday released the review of regulatory options for the wine and grape sector report – also known as the Emerson report – examining fair trading, competitive relationships, contracting practices and risk allocation between grape growers, winemakers and retailers.
A summary for the report – authored by Craig Emerson – states “a mandatory code is the only viable option” to ensure balanced dealings between wine grape growers and large wineries.
Barker MP Tony Pasin said implementing the reports recommendations before the next vintage would be beneficial to the Riverland Wine industry.
“I welcome the recommendations of the Emerson Review and note that they echo the calls I and others have been making for many months,” Mr Pasin said.
“I call on the Albanese Labor Government to accept those recommendations and set about implementing them as quickly as possible.
“Given that the industry has been in crisis for so long the (Federal) Government ought to ensure the measures set out in the review are operational in time for the next vintage.”
Federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said “the Albanese Government is committed to supporting the profitability, productivity, and resilience of the Australian grape and wine sector”.
“I would like to thank Dr Emerson for his comprehensive and considered report,” Ms Collins said.
“This is an important piece of work on an industry all Australians should be very proud of.
“Our Government is committed to ensuring that our grape and wine sector receives the support it needs to flourish and prosper in the years to come.”
The full review of regulatory options for the wine and grape sector report can be read by visiting the website (www.wineaustralia.com/research_and_innovation/projects/review-of-regulatory-options-for-the-wine-and-grape-sector).
This article appeared in Murray Pioneer, 16 July 2025.
