WAC and GWRDC merger before the Senate

A Bill to merge the Wine Australia Corporation (WAC) and Grape and Wine Research and Development Corporation (GWRDC) to form a new Australian Grape and Wine Authority has been introduced into parliament.

The Bill passed the House of Representatives earlier this year, but was still before the Senate when parliament was prorogued for the September election. The Bill received all-party support in the House of Reps.

“It is significant that this is the first piece of legislation put forward by the new Minister for Agriculture, Barnaby Joyce, and we are confident it will again be well supported,” said Vic Patrick, chair of Wine Grape Growers Australia (WGGA).

“We note his commitment to have the new authority operational by 1 July next year.”

WGGA and the Winemakers’ Federation of Australia (WFA) proposed the merger in 2012 after consultation with members and stakeholders.

According to WFA president Tony D’Aloisio, combining two statutory authorities is a big step, but the industry has sent a clear message that a single organisation would be better able to effectively and efficiently manage its needs.

“It will have a better capability to identify and deliver aligned industry strategic imperatives and R&D goals, and deliver industry programs, and that is vital if we are to maintain a profitable and sustainable wine sector,” D’Aloisio said.

“We are confident this Bill will have widespread support in parliament and hope it will be passed quickly to allow everyone to prepare for a smooth transition.”