9 March 2005 Media Statement
Government response to alcohol advertising petition
The government is looking at options for a review of the voluntary regime that regulates alcohol advertising.
This decision was contained in a response tabled in parliament today to a Health Select Committee report recommending
such a review. The report was the result of a petition, presented to the Committee by Dr Viola Palmer (a member of GALA,
the Group Against Liquor Advertising) and 2, 869 others.
The petition called for a Committee inquiry into the effects of alcohol promotion, particularly advertising and
sponsorship.
"The Government has agreed there are issues relating to the self-regulatory framework that need to be considered," said
Associate Health Minister Damien O'Connor.
"Consequently, the Government has asked the Inter-Agency Committee on Drugs to look at options for a Government-led
review. A policy paper covering these issues will be presented to the Ministerial Committee on Drugs in mid-2005."
The Committee report also recommended the monitoring of research into the health impact of advertising, and the
facilitation of counter-advertising. Mr O'Connor said the Government was already undertaking initiatives in both these
areas.
ENDS