Victorians support levy on alcohol and junk food advertising
New research by VicHealth (the Victorian Health Promotion Foundation) suggests that three quarters of Victorians support a levy on alcohol and junk food advertising, with proceeds going to replace sponsorship by these industries in community sports.
The survey also found that more than four out of five Victorians would like to see and end to alcohol sponsorship of local sports clubs, provided the lost funds are made up.
The survey, conducted in November last year, randomly surveyed 1500 Victorians on attitudes to community sports clubs, alcohol and junk food.
“More than two million Victorians play community sport. Thousands of community sports clubs play a vital role in the health and wellbeing of members of most households across Victoria,” said VicHealth Chief Executive Officer, Todd Harper.
“Eighty-five per cent of all Victorians said community sports clubs should reduce the sale and consumption of junk food to protect children’s health.”
Harper emphasised that healthier approaches to alcohol and junk food would make clubs more family-friendly and increase participation.
“The survey provides evidence of strong community support for governments to work with local sports clubs to improve the responsible consumption of alcohol and healthier food choices,” he said.
