New strategy for WA's growing distilling sector

The WA Government is backing the state’s growing distilling industry with the launch of the WA Distilling Industry Strategy 2025–2030.

The strategy was announced at the Perth Royal Distilled Spirits Awards with a focus on boosting brand recognition and tripling sales over the next five years.

The strategy was developed with extensive industry consultation, led by the Australian Distillers Association and WA Distillers Guild, with support from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.

“Western Australia’s distilling industry embodies the innovation, quality and entrepreneurial spirit that define our state’s economic future,” said Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis.

“The WA Distilling Industry Strategy builds on the momentum of this exciting emerging industry, and will support local businesses to grow and diversify, capture new markets and create new jobs.

“I commend the WA Distillers Guild, the Australian Distillers Association, and all contributors for their leadership and collaboration to help position WA as a premier destination for world-class spirits.”

The strategy’s recommendations centre on four priority areas:

• To advocate through collaboration and supportive policy.
• To advance through industry development.
• To promote WA spirits on the national and international stage.
• To access domestic and export markets.

Distillery businesses are strong contributors to the WA hospitality and tourism industries, providing job opportunities and strengthening the state’s economy. There are approximately 90 distillery businesses in WA, with close to half based in the regions.

Western Australian spirits are known for having a strong sense of provenance, with more than 90% of distillers reporting they use local ingredients, such as the state’s distinctive botanicals.

More than three-quarters of the distillery businesses produce gin, followed by vodka, whiskey, premixed spirits, limoncello, rum, brandy and other spirits.

“This strategy is a landmark moment for WA’s distilling industry — crafted by industry, for industry,” said Western Australian Distillers Guild President James Young. “Our producers are united by a commitment to quality, innovation and sustainability, and this strategy gives us a shared path forward.

“We look forward to working with industry and government to bring its vision to life.”

A working group will now develop an implementation plan to achieve early wins and long-term progress towards a strong and sustainable distilling industry.

“The Australian Distillers Association is proud to stand alongside the WA distilling community in delivering this industry-led strategy,” said Australian Distillers Association President Holly Klintworth.

Image credit: iStock.com/Liudmila Chernetska