In a joint statement with public health organisations alongside Dr Monique Ryan MP and Dr Mike Freelander MP, Dr Sophie Scamps MP has called on the government to urgently address the ‘childhood obesity crisis.’ The statement comes following the recent Feasibility study on options to limit unhealthy food marketing.
Recent data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare shows that rates of obesity in Australian children is rising. The proportion of children and adolescents aged 5–17 living with overweight or obesity increased to 28% in 2022–24, from 25% in 2017–18.
“These latest figures are a cause for alarm with the health of the next generation continuing to deteriorate. In failing to regulate junk food marketing targeting children, the Federal Government is failing our children,” Dr Scamps said.
“The Government needs to stop sitting on their hands and act decisively to safeguard the health of our children. How many more warnings do they need before they finally act?
“The report confirms that voluntary industry codes are not working and that comprehensive restrictions across all media and settings are both achievable and effective.”
Australian children are exposed to unhealthy food and drink advertising across a range of platforms including social media, gaming platforms, streaming services and sports sponsorships.
“The efforts of parents are being undermined daily as children continue to be engulfed by unhealthy food marketing and sugary drinks remain cheap and heavily promoted,” Dr Scamps said.
“The Government must stop prioritising the profits of multinational junk food companies over the health and wellbeing of Australian kids.”
