It was established as an Australian Government statutory corporation directed by a board appointed by the federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry at the time.

[2][3][5] In 1980, the Australian Wine and Brandy Corporation Act 1980 was passed,[6] forming the AWBC authority that has progressed to the present.

[7] With the passing of this act, the functions of the Australian Wine and Brandy Corporation, and thus the purpose of its formation were declared.

[13][14] In 2013, this piece of legislation was amended and thus recompiled to include up to date modifications and to respond to the changing demands of the wine industry in Australia.

They are funded largely by the government for the purposes of investing in R&D (research and development), with the aim of improving "profitability, productivity, competitiveness and long-term sustainability of Australia's primary industries".

[19] DAWE is responsible for the practical funding of Wine Australia’s business plans for the maintenance and sustainable achievement of their main objective.

[23] All of which play a role in this department being able to contribute to establishing a wine regulatory system that protects consumers; and ensures a fair trading environment for producers and exporters.

The "Label Integrity Program" is one of the main operational initiatives of the Compliance department within Wine Australia.

[25] In doing so, the compliance department are able to hold administrative control over truth in labelling by ensuring winemakers keep records and by imposing audits where required.

All of which share a common aim to improve and strengthen export opportunities for Australian wine with favourable trading conditions and increased investment internationally.

[27] These projects involve print, broadcast, online and social media, key influencer engagement and events, and consumer education which work together to develop a portfolio and presence for Australian wine exports with enhanced perception to consumers and potential investors.

From this, the department then also organises and hosts an information centre, which is readily accessible and in place to attend to different demands of wine businesses that may arise.