Strategic plan to be compiled by wine producers and the State Government

16/11/96

Western Australia's wine producers and the State Government are to work together to prepare the first ever comprehensive strategic plan for the State's burgeoning wine industry.

Deputy Premier Hendy Cowan said the strategic plan would be completed in the first half of 1997 and would provide a framework for the industry's future growth.

"It will cover a five-to-10-year time frame," Mr Cowan said.

"The industry is going through an exciting growth phase and there is strong domestic and overseas market acceptance for the premium wines being produced by Western Australia's regions.

"We should be optimistic about the future, but we should also realise that future growth can only be maximised if there is a whole-of-industry approach to a wide range of issues and opportunities.

"Industry members and the Government will work together to identify common achievable goals for the next five to 10 years, and develop strategies to meet these goals."

Preparation of the plan is the responsibility of a steering committee made up of representatives of each of WA's recognised wine regions and relevant government agencies.

The chairman of the committee is the president of the Wine Industry Association of WA, Mr Ian Mayo.

Mr Mayo said the strategic plan would examine all issues which could impact the future growth and prosperity of the wine industry, from production to developing strategies to market and promote WA wine both domestically and overseas.

"It will include issues such as identifying the best methods and places to grow wine grapes in the State," he said.

"Plan preparation will also involve examination of the current structure of the industry and industry associations, and Government policies relevant to the wine industry covering areas such as land use and environmental planning, tourism, education and training and taxation.

"The plan will provide Government organisations such as Agriculture WA and the Department of Commerce and Trade with a clear framework and priorities to best assist the industry's development."

The steering committee will take into account the Australian wine industry Five Year Plan, released in September, in its deliberations.

Commerce and Trade is funding a full-time research officer to work with industry members on researching and writing the plan.

Media contact: Peter Jackson 222 9595