Published 21 February 2023

Minister for Trade and Investment Tim Pallas visited Starward Distillery in Fishermans Bend recently where the company’s expert distillers produce an award-winning range of whiskies enjoyed around the world.

Established in Essendon in 2007, Starward now exports to 19 countries. This includes the company’s key market, the United States, where products are available in 37 states and feature on the drinks list in four out of five Michelin-star restaurants.

Starward’s success has been recognised internationally, with the company taking out the coveted Most Awarded Distillery of the Year at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2022 for receiving the most golds at the event.

Global demand for Victorian beverages booms

In 2021/22, the value of Victorian beverage exports grew by 36 per cent to $137 million with spirits a key to this growth. The value of spirits exports leapt by more than 60 per cent to $34 million last financial year and has doubled in five years. Top markets are New Zealand, the United States and Singapore.

The growth of the distillery sector in Victoria from zero producers 15 years ago has been phenomenal. There are now about 120 distilleries in Victoria – the most of any state – directly employing more than 1000 workers.

Victoria’s wider drinks industry directly contributes $10.7 billion to the economy, supporting more than 350,000 jobs in 23,000 licensed venues. That includes more than 1,000 businesses selling their own wine, beer, cider and spirits, including Starward Distillery.

The $1.5 million Drink Victorian program is also supporting the beverage sector by encouraging venues around the state to feature more local drinks on their menu.