Victoria’s craft distillers have welcomed an announcement from the Andrews Government that, if re-elected, it will extend the Distillery Door Program by an additional two years.
The Distillery Door Program has been co-designed with Government and industry to support and enhance Victoria’s distillery industry through supporting skills development, boosting the visitor economy, infrastructure, and export capability.
President of the Australian Distillers Association and Owner Bass and Flinders Distillery on the Mornington Peninsula, Holly Klintworth said: “Victoria is home to Australia’s biggest spirits exporters – Starward Whisky and Four Pillars Gin. The commitment by the Victorian Government means we can do everything to maintain Victoria as the country’s export hub. Spirits exports are high value products.”
The industry is also represented at the state level by Spirits Victoria Association, President and Co-Founder of Patient Wolf Distillery, David Irwin said: “Victorian Craft Spirits industry is growing rapidly and the support from the Andrews Government means we can grow safer, smarter and more sustainably.”
In announcing the additional funding, Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said: “Victoria is home to some of the best local producers in the country and we’ll back them to take the next step, boosting tourism experiences and showcasing regional Victoria to the world.”
There are more than 100 distillery licenses issued in Victoria and they are spread across the state. Spirit producers in Victoria produce World Class Whisky and Gin as well as Rum, Vodka, Brandy and Liqueurs.
