News

Key health leaders launch Rethink Sugary Drink alliance position statement

The AMA joined other health leaders this week to call for a 20 per cent health levy on sugary drink manufacturers.

The Rethink Sugary Drink alliance launched a new position statement on Monday urging the government to introduce a 20 per cent health levy on sugar drink manufacturers.

AMA President Professor Steve Robson, Cancer Council Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan, Australian Dental Association Board Director Dr Angie Nilsson and Food for Health Alliance Executive Manager Jane Martin, held a press conference at Parliament House on Monday to launch the position statement.

Alliance members, including AMA President Professor Steve Robson and AMA NSW President Dr Michael Bonning, also briefed parliamentarians on the levy.

The statement is backed by new AMA research that found a 20 per cent health levy on sugary drinks could raise around $1 billion each year, which could be used to fund crucial obesity prevention and other health initiatives.

Read the media release

Related topics