July 2026 News & Updates
Advocacy remains a key priority for Wine Victoria as we head towards the Victorian State Election.
Together with Chair Dan Sims, I have been meeting with both Government and Opposition representatives to discuss the priorities of the Victorian Wine Strategy and ensure the industry's voice is reflected as election policies are developed.
We look forward to keeping members up to date as our advocacy progresses.
Stephanie Duboudin
CEO, Wine Victoria
Drink Victoria Trade Tasting Celebrates Fifth Year
More than 1,200 trade professionals and 240 Victorian drinks producers came together yesterday at Marvel Stadium for the fifth annual Drink Victoria Trade Tasting.
As a proud member of the Drinks Alliance and the Project Control Board, Wine Victoria congratulates Food & Drink Victoria, our industry partners and Agriculture Victoria on another successful showcase of Victorian beverages.
New Advisory Groups Established
Following an open expression of interest process earlier this year, Wine Victoria has established two new advisory groups to support the delivery of the Victorian Wine Strategy.
People & Community, chaired by Mel Chester, Giant Steps, and Wine Victoria Board Director
Visitor Experience, chaired by Katherine Brown, Brown Family Wine Group, and Wine Victoria Board Director
The groups bring together representatives from across Victoria's wine industry to provide expertise and help guide delivery of these important strategic priorities. Visit our website to read more and view the advisory group members.
Wine Victoria Chair Joins Global Wine Polycrisis Discussion
Wine Victoria Chair Dan Sims recently joined an expert panel at the University of Melbourne's Is This the End of Wine as We Know It? – Dissecting the Worldwide Wine Polycrisis forum.
Moderated by Max Allen, the panel brought together Professor Kym Anderson AC, Professor Karl Storchmann, Brian Croser AO, Wendy Cameron MW, Capucine Dentraygues and Dan Sims for a robust discussion attended by more than 200 people.
The discussion explored changing consumer behaviour, global trade, sustainability, climate change and the long-term outlook for the global wine sector.
Advocacy
In the past month, Wine Victoria has represented the industry at the following events:
- Agriculture Victoria budget discussions
- State Election advocacy meetings
- Global Victoria export project meetings
- Austrade export assistance discussions
- State association and Australian Grape & Wine meetings
- Wine Australia partnership discussions
Export & Trade Opportunities
Canada Trade Events – Vancouver & Toronto
In partnership with Global Victoria, Wine Victoria invites expressions of interest from Victorian wineries to participate in trade events in Vancouver and Toronto this October.
The events will showcase Victorian wines to Canadian importers, liquor board buyers, retailers and on-premise decision-makers.
Attendance is not required – participating wineries simply need to supply wines for consideration. EOIs close 17 August.
ProWine Shanghai – EOI Extended
10–12 Nov, 2026: In partnership with Global Victoria, Wine Victoria is offering members a 50% subsidy to participate in ProWine Shanghai, one of Asia's leading international wine and spirits trade exhibitions.
The event connects wineries with importers, distributors, retailers, wholesalers and hospitality professionals from across China and the broader region, making it an excellent opportunity to reconnect with the market and showcase Victorian wines.
Wine Australia Global Market Update 2026: From insights to impact
14 Aug, 2026: Join Wine Australia for the upcoming Global Market Update to gain valuable insights into the current state of play in domestic and international wine markets. Hear directly from industry experts as they unpack the latest trends and insights and join discussions around the changes shaping the future of our sector, both at home and internationally.
This is a key opportunity to stay informed and better understand where the opportunities lie in a rapidly evolving global wine market.
Friday, 14 August 2026, 10:00am–5:00pm (ACST) | Adelaide Convention Centre
Viticulture
Viticulture Industry Virus Survey
Agriculture Victoria is seeking input from grapegrowers with experience managing grapevine viruses to help improve certified planting material.
If you have experience managing grapevine viruses, complete the survey by 9 August.
Capability Building
Australian Women in Wine Symposium 2026
15 Sept, 2026: The Australian Women in Wine National Symposium brings together women from across the wine industry for a day of learning, connection and professional development.
Under the theme Rising Together – Shaping What Comes Next, the program will explore stronger leadership pathways, more inclusive workplaces and the long-term sustainability of the wine industry through four key pillars: Evolve, Adapt, Collaborate and Challenge.
Tuesday, 15 September 2026, 8:30am–7:00pm AEST | Melbourne
Wine not Whine – Wine Industry Reset
A practical afternoon of industry insights, discussion and networking for grape growers, vineyard owners and wineries across North East Victoria. Join North East Wine Zone to for an afternoon of information, connection and support for regional grape growers.
Thursday, 3 September 2026, 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM AEST
Murray–Darling Basin Leadership Program
Applications are open for emerging leaders interested in regional leadership and water management. Join a diverse cohort from across the Basin to build leadership skills, strengthen networks and help shape the future of the Murray–Darling Basin.
Young Farmers Upskill and Invest Program
Scholarships of up to $10,000 are available to help young farmers and farm workers invest in their skills, professional development and future careers.
Applications are now open and will close on 14 August 2026.
Finlaysons Wine Roadshow 2026
Wine Victoria is pleased to support the Finlaysons Wine Roadshow 2026.
This year’s seminar, Save Every Drop: How to Manage a Wine Business in Challenging Economic Times,will explore practical strategies for navigating current industry and economic pressures.
Wine Victoria members receive $50 off the retail ticket price.
Key Dates
Wine Industry Events Calendar
See a wide-ranging collection of trade, industry and consumer wine events and activities happening across the globe using the Wine Industry Events Calendar.
2026
- 21 July – Melbourne Royal Wine Show entries open, learn more
- 31 July – Victorian Wine Show 2026 entries open
- 4 August – Finlaysons Roadshow – Yarra Valley
- 5 August – Finlaysons Roadshow – Rutherglen
- 14 August – Wine Australia Global Market Update, register
- 15 September – Australian Women in Wine Symposium – Melbourne
- 6 November – Melbourne Royal Wine Awards results announced
If there is an upcoming event that is not on the calendar, please email at communications@wineaustralia.com