Despite significant evidence of harms associated with high levels of sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption, and international moves towards regulation to curb overconsumption of such drinks, Australia has been slow to take policy action. This study provides in-depth insights into consumers’ reactions to different SSB policy options.

The management of the obesity crisis in Australia is a national and economic priority, and Australia’s response to it must be commensurate with the breadth of its prevalence and and major impacts it has on individuals and society. This report outlines economic modelling of the likely effects on obesity from a tax on sugary drinks.

Australia's peak body for social services has released its tax reform election policy. It is calling for an end to tax loopholes for the wealthy in order to fund investment in our essential services and income support system.

The final report makes 22 recommendations to government, including establishing a National Obesity Taskforce, reviewing food labelling and dietary guidelines, introducing a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages, restricting TV advertising, and supporting related health promotion activities.

Alison Watkins, the group managing director of Coca-Cola Amatil, has argued against a sugar tax, emphasising that despite a fall in the consumption of added sugars since 1995, obesity rates have continued to rise.