Winegrape and Wine Industry in Australia

Industry Commission Study

This study concluded with the completion of the report, Winegrape and Wine Industry in Australia, which was released on 30 June 1995.

About the Study

The Industry Commission examined the potential of the wine grape and wine industry with particular regard to exports and the impact of taxation and cash grants on the industry.

In undertaking the study, the Commission specifically reported on:

• the current structure and competitiveness of the industry, including an identification of strengths and weaknesses;
• the contribution of the industry to the Australian economy, including its contribution to the further development of regional economies;
• the potential for further development of the industry, including the identification of export market opportunities;
• impediments to growth and exports and any measures which could be undertaken to remove impediments or otherwise contribute to the growth or export development of the industry, in ways that are consistent with the principles of efficient resource use in the economy;
• the appropriate form and level of taxation and cash grants for the industry, taking into account the ability of the industry to achieve its domestic and export potential and the taxation regimes applied to alcoholic beverages in Australia and other countries, and to all other Australian industries;
• the implementation strategies for any suggested measures; and
• the effects on the industry, consumers, and the economy in general, of any measures recommended.

The study was undertaken by W I Scales (Chairman, Industry Commission), B J Croser (Executive Chairman, Petaluma LImited) and J W Freebairn (Professor of Economics, Monash University).