The Australian Wine Research InstituteThe Australian Wine Research Institute

The program takes a holistic approach to managing, supporting and promoting sustainability. It is administered by the Australian Wine Research Institute with governance, endorsement and active support from Australian Grape & Wine and Wine Australia. These three organisations form a joint steering committee to oversee the program, with agreed activities set out in an Annual Operating Plan. Sustainable Winegrowing Australia is modelled on global best practices and aligned to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, with progress towards these monitored annually.

Australian wine producers are well known for their commitment to sustainable production and continuous improvement. Members of Sustainable Winegrowing Australia commit to the program because they want to leave the world a better place. They care about protecting and enhancing a pristine environment for the future, through excellence in sustainability practices today. Becoming a member is easy. For a minimal annual fee, the national program provides a simple online reporting framework, practical tools and access to benchmarking data. The aim is for all producers to achieve business efficiencies, cost savings and increased business value over the long term.

The program fosters stronger relationships between growers, wineries and their regions. It also provides authority and confidence to customers, who receive reliable certified produce to address growing global consumer demand. No matter where a grapegrower or winemaker is on the journey, the program is relevant and user-friendly. It provides a clear pathway to becoming a Certified Member, with the full support of the Australian Wine Research Institute along the way.

Certified members:

• commit to triennial independent audits
• are identified by the Sustainable Winegrowing Australia trust mark – an assurance to customers and consumers of how the product is produced
• benefit from inclusion in Wine Australia’s marketing events programs, in case studies, sustainability stories and in Wine Australia’s education and content for customers and consumers

Program overview and new Sustainable Winegrowing Australia trust mark

Case studies

Vineyard soil remediation – The Madgetts Block	Reducing energy and water use in vineyards – RymillCoonawarra
Water and energy savings from using mulch in vineyards	Water and soil management – Bantry Bay