Extension & Adoption offering for participants in the Victorian Wine Industry
Turn insight into action
In Victoria, we place a strong focus on the extension and adoption of research and innovation across the Victorian wine sector, guided by the Wine Australia Extension and Adoption Strategy (2025–30). It is not always easy to turn data into actionable insight - this is why we have pulled together the range of supports available to Wine Victoria members at a local, state and national level.
Sustainability & Innovation Lead
The Sustainability & Innovation Lead delivers the Extension and Adoption Strategy at a state level, connecting national research and tools with practical application for Victorian grape growers and winemakers.
The role leads delivery of the Regional Program across greater Victoria and acts as a conduit into national initiatives, including the National Advisor Network and Wine Australia Discussion Groups.
Our objective
The Extension and Adoption Strategy is Wine Australia’s national approach to making sure research and innovation are both developed and applied in vineyards and wineries.
In Victoria, the strategy underpins the Regional Program, connecting growers and winemakers with practical tools, insights and support to improve decision-making and business performance.
Priority Areas
At Wine Victoria we are currently focusing on three priority areas as part of the regional program to address sustainability and innovation outcomes as part of the Victorian Wine Strategy. This ties into the regional program through our education programs we run annually with growers and makers.
Connect to a Regional Association
Victoria’s wine regions are supported by a network of regional associations that connect growers and winemakers at a local level. These organisations understand regional conditions and help link businesses with relevant programs, advisors and support.
Wine Victoria works closely with this network and can connect you with the right regional representative. If you’re unsure where to start, get in touch and we’ll point you in the right direction.
Under 35? Connect to Rootlings
Strong industries need future leaders. Rootlings Victorian Chapter connects the next generation of wine professionals through networking, mentoring and development opportunities that build confidence, fresh thinking and long-term capability. Supporting young people to grow and stay engaged helps drive the innovation, adaptability and leadership needed for a sustainable Victorian wine industry.
National Advisor Network
The National Advisor Network is a coordinated group of advisors and extension specialists across Australia who support growers and winemakers to apply research and improve practice. It connects people working directly with producers, helping ensure consistent, practical advice is shared across regions and aligned with national priorities.
Find technical advisors and support.
Advice and support for grape growers and winemakers comes from a range of sources, including regional associations, research organisations, consultants, service providers and peer networks. Whether you need technical guidance, trusted advisors, new technology or opportunities to learn from others, there are pathways available at a local, state and national level.
Discussion Groups
Wine Australia Discussion Groups are a pilot initiative under the Extension and Adoption Strategy, designed to bring growers and winemakers together to explore challenges, share experiences and apply new knowledge in a practical setting.
These groups are being tested to see if they can help strengthen peer learning and support more consistent adoption of research and innovation across regions.
If you are interested in participating, get a group together and please get in touch with Wine Victoria. We can connect with Wine Australia and help explore opportunities for involvement.
