The time may be ripe for a levy on alcohol and junk food advertising in Victoria, Australia. New research reveals that three quarters of the Victorian population support a levy if the funds raised are used to replace alcohol and junk food sponsorship in community sports clubs.
Food and alcohol companies invest big money in sport because it works, according to the chief executive of Vic Health. In an Age opinion piece he wrote:
“Their return on investment is to capture young people when they are most vulnerable, by associating their products with healthy activities, team spirit, friendship and fun.”
“We need to empower sports clubs to create healthier environments by freeing them from the shackles of alcohol and junk food sponsorship.”
Read more: The Age, 5 May 2010