The proposed mandatory code is intended to establish clearer and more consistent trading arrangements, helping to foster greater confidence and certainty for both growers and wine producers The Australian Government…

The proposed mandatory code is intended to establish clearer and more consistent trading arrangements, helping to foster greater confidence and certainty for both growers and wine producers

The Australian Government has introduced the Wine and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2026, a key legislative measure aimed at improving fairness and transparency across the country’s wine supply chain.

The Bill forms part of the Albanese Government’s response to Dr Craig Emerson’s independent review of regulatory options for the wine and grape sector. The review recommended introducing a mandatory code of conduct for wine grape purchases after identifying systemic imbalances in contracting and bargaining power between grape growers and winemakers that could not be adequately addressed under the existing voluntary code.

The proposed mandatory code is intended to establish clearer, more consistent trading arrangements, fostering greater confidence and certainty for both growers and wine producers.

In addition to supporting the new regulatory framework, the Bill will expand the powers of Wine Australia to collect industry data through surveys of grape and wine producers. The information gathered may be shared with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to assist in administering and enforcing the proposed mandatory code.

The legislation comes as Australia’s wine industry continues to grapple with global oversupply, declining wine consumption, and ongoing market pressures. Grape growers have been advocating for stronger protections and more balanced commercial arrangements amid these challenging conditions.

Since taking office, the Albanese Labour Government has committed more than AUD 90 million to support Australia’s grape and wine sector, recognising its importance to regional economies, employment, and agricultural exports.

Commenting on the legislation, Julie Collins, Australia’s Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, said Australian wine remains a world-class product and a vital contributor to regional communities and export markets.

“The Albanese Labour Government is committed to improving fairness, transparency and confidence for grape growers and winemakers right across the supply chain,” Collins said.

She added that the Bill represents an important step toward creating a fairer wine grape supply chain by providing growers and winemakers with greater confidence and transparency in commercial dealings.