The Australian wine sector has taken a significant step forward in promoting gender equity with the release of the Australian Wine Industry Gender Equity Toolkit. Developed through a robust collaboration between Wine Australia, Australian Grape & Wine (AGW), Charles Sturt University, and the University of New South Wales, this initiative marks a transformative moment for diversity and inclusion in one of Australia’s most iconic industries.
A Sector-Specific Response to Structural Challenges
At a time when the wine industry faces economic and structural pressures, the Toolkit offers a timely and practical resource to support businesses in building inclusive, resilient workplaces. It addresses key areas such as recruitment, retention, flexible work arrangements, parental leave, leadership development, mentoring, and equal pay. Importantly, it also provides guidance on cultural change, including eliminating sexual harassment and fostering inclusive environments.
The Toolkit was informed by extensive sector-wide consultation, including 18 focus groups with women in the industry, feedback from the Australian Women in Wine National Symposium, and input from a diverse advisory committee. These engagements ensured the Toolkit reflects the unique characteristics of the wine sector: Its seasonal nature, physical work demands, regional operations, and varied business structures.
Translating Research into Action
The Toolkit is the culmination of a three-phase research project commissioned by Wine Australia and AGW’s Diversity, Equality and Inclusion in Wine (DEIW) Committee. The research team, led by Associate Professor Larissa Bamberry and including Associate Professor Donna Bridges, Dr Helen Taylor, Dr Elizabeth Wulff (Charles Sturt University), and Associate Professor Sue Williamson (UNSW Canberra), conducted a comprehensive analysis of gender equity in the sector.
- Phase 1 mapped existing data and identified gaps in gender diversity reporting.
- Phase 2 engaged stakeholders to uncover challenges and opportunities for equity.
- Phase 3 translated these insights into a practical, scalable Toolkit.
The research demonstrated that gender-diverse organisations perform better financially, retain staff more effectively, and are more innovative. The Toolkit thus not only supports legal compliance but also builds a compelling business case for equity.
Sector-Wide Impact and Future Directions
The Toolkit is now available online and will be promoted through national and state industry bodies. It is designed to be dynamic, evolving with feedback from users to enhance its relevance and accessibility. Recommendations from the research include establishing industry-wide parental leave policies, structured mentoring programs for women leaders, and mechanisms for confidential reporting of workplace issues.
Congratulations to the Research Team
We extend our sincere congratulations to the research team for their outstanding contribution to advancing gender equity in the Australian wine sector. Their rigorous, inclusive, and impactful work exemplifies the power of research to drive meaningful change. The Toolkit stands as a testament to their dedication and the collaborative spirit of the sector.
To explore the Toolkit and contribute feedback, visit https://www.wineaustralia.com/gender-equity-toolkit.