New bursary for Australian wine’s rising stars to attend IMW Symposium 2027

Applications are now open for a new bursary giving Australian grape and wine professionals aged 35 and under the opportunity to attend the Institute of Masters of Wine International Symposium 2027, one of the world’s most influential forums for wine education, ideas and debate.

The bursaries are designed for emerging professionals who want to accelerate their careers, expand their global perspective and bring new thinking back to Australia’s wine sector. Open to people working across viticulture, winemaking, research, marketing and trade, the program removes cost barriers and provides access to learning and networks that are often out of reach early in a career.

Ten successful applicants will receive financial support to attend the IMW Symposium 2027 and engage directly with global experts, Masters of Wine and international peers. This event is widely acknowledged as a highlight of the global wine calendar, bringing together industry leaders, experts and wine lovers for four days of tastings, winemaker dinners, thought-provoking presentations and controversial debate.

For many early-career professionals, the Symposium represents a rare opportunity to learn alongside global leaders, explore emerging ideas around sustainability, markets and education, and build international networks that can shape long-term career pathways.

Emma Symington MW, Head of Education Development – EMEA at Wine Australia, is one of two co-chairs organising the Symposium and was instrumental in establishing this bursary to ensure young and early-career wine professionals have an opportunity to participate.

“Young professionals want to be part of global conversations early and gain confidence that their ideas belong in the room. But often the cost to attend experiences like the International Masters of Wine International Symposium are out of reach for many. As an organiser of this event, I genuinely want to see more young people attending.”

Jenna Vaughan oversees the Rootlings program, the national network for young grape and wine professionals funded by Wine Australia, and said the bursary responds directly to what under 35’s are seeking from their careers.

“Young professionals want access, not just information. Being in the room where big conversations are happening changes how you think about your role and what’s possible. This kind of opportunity helps you bring new ideas back to the workplace and apply them on the ground.”

The IMW Symposium 2027 will be delivered by the Institute of Masters of Wine and hosted in South Australia with support from the South Australian Government. Wine Australia is a major sponsor of the Symposium and delivers the bursary program as part of its long-term investment in industry capability.

Wine Australia Chief Executive Officer, Dr Martin Cole, said the bursaries are about building skills, confidence and global perspective.

“Young professionals are navigating a wine sector that is changing fast. Access to global thinking, education and networks has never been more important. These bursaries are about backing people who are curious, committed and ready to contribute to the future of Australian wine.”

Applications are open now and close at 11:59pm ACST, Friday 24 April 2026. Successful applicants will be announced in June 2026.