For regions that have already undertaken a strategic planning process, the extension and adoption priorities in your plan can simply be transferred into the GWRDC Regional strategic plan template and submitted to the GWRDC.

The areas of research requiring attention are those outlined in the programs which are part of the GWRDC Five Year R&D Plan. Intending applicants should consult this document, which is available elsewhere on this website.

There are no restrictions on who can apply, although the expectations of a research provider having the personnel, scientific record, linkages to the Australian wine industry and resources to undertake projects will mean recognised research institutions have the most chance of success.

For general applications there is a two-stage process, consisting of a brief Preliminary Project Application and a more detailed Final Project Application. Preliminary applications are typically called for via advertisements in national papers in early September and close in October and final applications in January. Application forms are available on the Call for Applications page.

Yes, the GWRDC have Program Managers assigned to different Program areas, and they welcome enquiries from potential project proponents. Furthermore, GWRDC may contact the applicant between the first,second and research contracting stages to discuss possible project variations.

Applications were assessed on the basis of the GWRDC's assessment criteria including consideration of its alignment with other industry research investments and industry priorities.  Applicants must demonstrate that the work outlined in their application can provide economic, environmental or social benefits, and contribute to sustainability of the industry, or generate knowledge that adds to other research outcomes. Proposals must align with industry priorities. Other criteria include feasibility, likely benefits to grape growers and wine makers and the communities which grow from and depend on their enterprises, capacity to deliver and likely returns from the investment

Applications are firstly assessed by the GWRDC's Program Managers, and then recommendations are made to the GWRDC's R&D Committee with the option of engaging reviewers with special expertise in relation to the nature and objects of particular applications. Final project applications are approved for funding by the GWRDC Board.

The reporting requirements for successful applicants include progress reporting every six months and final reports as well as budget reconciliation reports at the end of the project.  These are provided in the Reporting section.

The amount of funding available each year varies because revenue is based on production levies paid by grape growers and wine makers and matching grants provided by the Australian Government.