Monique's vineyard rests on a 'lifeline' - but her future is uncertain

Australian wine producers are unsure if a subsidy described as 'crucial' to their businesses will continue.
Key points:Wine producers across the country are concerned about future of federally run grant schemeSome wineries may have to cut staff and postpone planned expansions Wines says grant scheme to improve wine tourism and door-to-door sales, introduced by federal government in 2018, has been a lifeline for her business.
"That's a lot of money for our small business," she said.

"The grant is simply helping us with our existing program, paying salaries, as well as undertaking maintenance. We are not doing anything new with this money."
Eligible producers were able to request a payment of 29% of their cellar door sales in the previous fiscal year, up to $100,000.
But with the change in government earlier this year, it's unclear if the program will continue.
Wine producers across the country were able to apply for the grant. (ABC News: Robert-Koenig-Luck)
Ms. Lubiana said the shortfall that needed to be covered meant she had to make tough decisions.
"Our growth is inhibited by withdrawing this subsidy," she said.
"We just have to push back spending; we have to be very attentive to our job and we may have to postpone the interview.
"It is already very difficult for any regional tourist company."
Companies need clarity
Wine Tasmania's Sheralee Davies says the grant is significant for several businesses in the state, as well as across the country, and the rtainty ounce around its future "puts a huge burden on them.
"As far as we know, this grant program is in jeopardy," she said.
Sheralee Davies says some businesses in the state will be concerned about the potential impact.(ABC News: Luke Bowden)
Ms Davies says they have "heard nothing" from the government.
"At worst, for some of these companies, it could mean up to $100,000 that they expected to be able to receive may not be available lable," she said.
"That would obviously have a fundamental impact on a business trying to manage its cash flow and profitability for a year .

Agrotech Sep 28, 2022 0 89 Add to Reading List

Monique's vineyard rests on a 'lifeline' - but her future is uncertain

Australian wine producers are unsure if a subsidy described as 'crucial' to their businesses will continue.

Key points:Wine producers across the country are concerned about future of federally run grant schemeSome wineries may have to cut staff and postpone planned expansions Wines says grant scheme to improve wine tourism and door-to-door sales, introduced by federal government in 2018, has been a lifeline for her business.

"That's a lot of money for our small business," she said.

"The grant is simply helping us with our existing program, paying salaries, as well as undertaking maintenance. We are not doing anything new with this money."

Eligible producers were able to request a payment of 29% of their cellar door sales in the previous fiscal year, up to $100,000.

But with the change in government earlier this year, it's unclear if the program will continue.

Ms. Lubiana said the shortfall that needed to be covered meant she had to make tough decisions.

"Our growth is inhibited by withdrawing this subsidy," she said.

"We just have to push back spending; we have to be very attentive to our job and we may have to postpone the interview.

"It is already very difficult for any regional tourist company."

Companies need clarity

Wine Tasmania's Sheralee Davies says the grant is significant for several businesses in the state, as well as across the country, and the rtainty ounce around its future "puts a huge burden on them.

"As far as we know, this grant program is in jeopardy," she said.