A pub with no beer

By Gary Rice, Beauchamps Solicitors

A report from the National Preventative Health Task Force in Australia has recommended legislation banning alcohol advertising on television at times when people under 25 are likely to be watching, including during sports coverage. The task force is committed to reducing obesity, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. However, national governing bodies in Australia such as Cricket Australia, the Australian Football League, the National Rugby League and the Australian Rugby Union have come out against the ban saying that they promote responsible drinking. The Australian governing bodies stand to lose up to AUS$300 million in sponsorship. Meanwhile, the Australian fast food industry has collaborated with the Australian Association of National Advertisers to produce a voluntary code to govern the way it markets products to children.