The University of Newcastle

The University of Newcastle is an emerging research partner for Australia's grape and wine sector, bringing multidisciplinary expertise across environmental science, engineering, business, social sciences and regional development. Through its Wine Studies Research Network and specialised research centres, the University works with industry, government and research organisations to address challenges affecting wine production, sustainability and regional wine communities.

The University's research strengths align particularly well with sustainability and circular economy opportunities for the grape and wine sector. Recent collaboration with Wine Australia has focused on innovative solutions for managing end-of-life vineyard infrastructure, including the development of technologies to recycle CCA-treated vineyard posts. This research investigates methods to recover valuable materials, reduce landfill costs, create new regional industries and improve environmental outcomes for wine regions such as the Hunter Valley.

The University of Newcastle also brings capability in climate adaptation, resource management, sustainability, consumer and market research, regional resilience and industry transformation. Its collaborative approach combines scientific innovation with economic, social and regional perspectives to develop practical solutions that can be adopted by grape growers, winemakers and wine regions.

Through partnerships with Wine Australia and industry stakeholders, the University of Newcastle contributes new knowledge, future research capability and practical innovations that support the long-term sustainability, profitability and resilience of Australia's grape and wine sector.