Record attendance at 2024 Australian Women in Wine National Symposium proves investing in women is essential for the future of wine.
For the full album of photographs from the day, click here.
For the full agenda and speaker line-up, click here.
The 2024 Australian Women in Wine (AWIW) National Symposium took place on Friday 22 November in Hobart, Tasmania, and drew a record-breaking attendance with participants from across the country coming together to champion the theme “Investing in Women for the Betterment of Australian Wine.”
The symposium featured a stellar lineup of speakers from inside and outside the wine industry, delivering thought-provoking discussions and actionable insights. From workplace happiness and resilience to financial empowerment and gender inclusivity, the day covered every facet of how investing in women directly benefits individuals, businesses, and the entire wine sector.
AWIW Founder and Chair Jane Thomson OAM, emphasised that diversity isn’t just a nice idea — it’s critical business strategy that affects the profitability and success of the entire industry.
“This year’s record turnout sends a clear message: the current status quo isn’t working. We must, as an entire industry, end the rhetoric and commit to making meaningful investments in increasing gender diversity. Only then can we secure a stronger, more sustainable future for Australian wine.”
A Call to Action
As the industry grapples with significant challenges, the symposium underscored a crucial point: investing in women and fostering diversity is essential to attracting and retaining the talent necessary for long-term success.
This sentiment was echoed by globally acclaimed speakers, including Catherine Fox AM, who spoke on dismantling workplace biases, and Sheetal Deo, whose address highlighted the importance of intersectionality in achieving inclusivity.
From mental health advocate Bianca Welsh to financial empowerment expert Amanda Thompson, the diverse speaker line-up inspired attendees to rethink how their workplaces and strategies can be restructured to support and empower women at every level.
Event Highlights:
• An inspiring keynote by UK-based Lulie Halstead, who’s research shows that prioritising women in wine represents a +$675M revenue return opportunity in Australia alone
• Hearing from industry leaders such as Samantha Connew of Stargazer Wines and Angie Bradbury of Bradbury & Co who shared their personal experiences and insights.
• Overwhelming positive feedback from attendees, who praised the event’s depth, relevance, and call to action.
The evening prior, a sold-out Welcome Dinner set the tone for the symposium, providing opportunities for networking, collaboration, and celebrating the successes of women in wine.
A Clear Way Forward
The Australian wine industry faces undeniable challenges, but the symposium proved there’s a clear way forward: prioritise diversity and inclusivity, starting with meaningful investment in women.
The AWIW thanks its sponsors, particularly Plumm, the symposium’s Presenting Partner, along with session sponsors including the Australian Wine Industry Technical Conference, Stanton & Stanton, Wine Australia, and Australian Grape and Wine.
