Riverland Grape Prices Plunge to $80 Per Tonne, Far Below $350 Production Cost

Riverland Wine, the representative body for South Australia’s largest wine-producing region, has sent an urgent open letter to Premier Peter Malinauskas, warning of a deepening crisis that threatens the livelihoods of thousands of families. The letter, sent on November 14, describes conditions in the Riverland as having moved beyond a typical industry downturn into what it calls a “full-blown community emergency.”

The letter is signed by Amanda Dimas, chair of the Riverland Winegrape Growers Association, and Jim Markeas, chair of the Riverland Wine Industry Development Council. It highlights that grape purchase prices remain at historic lows. Early signs for the 2026 vintage show Shiraz prices between $80 and $120 per tonne, while the cost of production is more than $350 per tonne. Prices for white grapes have also dropped sharply, adding to the financial strain on growers.

Riverland Wine’s leaders warn that if action is not taken soon, the consequences will be catastrophic. “When farmers stop believing they have a future, whole towns suffer,” the letter states. The group points out that schools, local businesses, sporting clubs, and service organizations are already feeling the effects as growers struggle to stay afloat.

The organization is calling for immediate government intervention. Their requests include a government-led crisis meeting with industry stakeholders—such as banks, peak bodies, growers, and wineries—within the region by the end of January. They are also seeking an immediate support package for those who want to adapt and continue farming, as well as transitional support for those leaving the industry. This support would address issues like vineyard abandonment, biosecurity threats, and long-term land devaluation.

The letter emphasizes that time is critical. “The emotional and financial damage is compounding with every passing day,” it warns. Riverland Wine says that while this may sound like a familiar call for help from agriculture sectors under pressure, the current situation is unprecedented in its severity.

A copy of the letter is available on Riverland Wine’s website. The Premier’s office has acknowledged receipt of the letter but has not yet issued an official response. The Riverland region produces a significant portion of South Australia’s wine grapes and supports many rural communities whose economies depend on viticulture. Growers and local leaders say they are waiting anxiously for government action as they face another season of low prices and mounting uncertainty about their future.