In the ongoing battle against obesity and its associated health risks, South Australia has taken a bold step by banning junk food advertisements on public transport.
The policy, the first ban of its kind in an Australian state or territory, will come into effect from July 1, 2025, on all Adelaide Metro buses, trains, and trams, making a significant step in addressing the pervasive marketing of unhealthy food and drinks.
The list of products deemed ‘not recommended for promotion’ listed in the policy is extensive, including items that many might consider harmless, such as muesli bars and flavoured mineral waters, alongside the more obvious culprits like potato chips and processed meats.
This move from South Australia has sparked a national conversation about the influence of advertising on dietary choices, particularly among children.
The Australian Greens party is now advocating for this initiative to be adopted at a federal level, urging the Albanese government to consider a nationwide ban on such advertisements.
Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young has praised the initiative but insists that to make a real impact, the ban ‘needs to go further’ and must extend to television and online platforms as children today are exposed to a barrage of advertising through various media, not just on public transport.
‘If a ban on junk food ads on buses, trains and trams can make a difference, then a ban on TV and online ads is absolutely vital to really drive change. Without federal intervention, our kids will still be bombarded with junk food ads every time they turn on the TV or go online,’ she said.
‘If the Albanese Labor government is serious about protecting our kids online, then they will follow SA’s lead and commit to a junk food ad ban ahead of the next election.’
Health and Wellbeing Minister Chris Picton of South Australia also shared his take on the policy, highlighting the urgency of the situation, noting that obesity has now overtaken tobacco as the number one public health issue in the country.
He describes the policy as ‘one step’ closer to creating ‘a healthier future for South Australians.’
Preventive Health South Australia added and warned that if no action is taken, children who were born in 2023 could face a reduction in life expectancy due to obesity-related health issues as they age.
Notably, a federal ban on tobacco advertising since the 70s has seen a significant reduction in smoking rates. The success of this approach with tobacco suggests that a similar strategy could be effective in curbing the appeal of junk food, particularly to impressionable young minds.
The potential benefits of a federal ban on junk food advertising are numerous. Not only could it lead to improved health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs associated with treating obesity-related conditions, but it could also encourage food manufacturers to innovate healthier products.
It would send a powerful message about the importance of nutrition and the role of the government in safeguarding public health.
As we consider the implications of South Australia’s bold move, it’s worth reflecting on the broader societal shifts that could follow a federal ban on junk food advertising.
Have you noticed the impact of junk food advertising on your own or your family’s eating habits? Do you believe a federal ban would make a difference? What other measures do you think might support such a ban in creating a more nutritious food landscape for all Australians?
Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and let’s discuss how we can work together towards a healthier future.
Also read: Obesity takes the lead as Australia’s biggest health threat, study finds
