Business

SA Government Cuts Red Tape For Wineries

Red wineThe SA Government is cutting red tape to make it easier for SA wine producers to do business and to promote their products in the market place.

Minister for Consumer Affairs Gail Gago says implementation of the changes to the Liquor Licensing Act 1997, which come into effect today, will reduce the volume of paperwork, staffing and other overheads and expenses for wine producers.

“This will assist them to better focus on building their brands while promoting the growth of the local economy and South Australian wine tourism,” she said.

“Working closely with the South Australian Wine Industry Association, the Government is making changes to streamline the licence application process.

“This will particularly assist small wineries to better cater for visitors’ needs, while potentially saving up to $4.2 million across the industry.”

“Regional wine producers will be able to form a Collective Cellar Door of four or five wineries or operate from a second premises under their existing licence.

“They will be able to participate in regional farmers’ markets or other local festivals and events without the need to apply for a new licence each time.

“The Collective Cellar Door proposal has been enthusiastically received by the wine industry, particularly by smaller operators who find it difficult to raise the funds to set up and run their own cellar door facility.”

“Consumers may also be pleased that wine producers, previously limited to selling or supplying their own product, will now be able to sell beer with a meal and provide samples of wine from other wineries at tastings.

“In addition, producers can now seek exemption from legal requirements that blended wine contain a ‘substantial proportion’ of their own product. This exemption will help avoid further strain for producers who have lost production capacity from circumstances beyond their control, such as bushfire or crop failure. “

Brian Smedley, Chief Executive of the South Australian Wine Industry Association has welcomed the reforms.

“These changes are a win-win for everyone,” he said.

“The reforms provide opportunities for wine businesses to reduce operating costs, eliminate red tape and provide increased flexibility that benefits both consumers and licensees.”

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