A coalition of health agencies has strongly endorsed the alcohol initiatives agreed to by the Government, Greens and independent Senator Nick Xenophon in exchange for their support for the alcopops bill in the Senate today.

The proposed package includes:

• An additional $50 million over four years, for a range of initiatives including:
   • establishing a fund to provide an alternative source of sponsorship for sport and cultural activities
   • enhancing alcohol counselling lines
   • expansion of social marketing campaigns

• Mandatory health warnings on all alcohol containers, and advertising.

• A new alcohol advertising regulatory regime with a stronger health focus.

• Improved alcohol data collection.

“We’re delighted with the initiatives proposed – it’s a great package that must be passed by the Senate,” said Alcohol Policy Coalition spokesperson and VicHealth CEO Todd Harper.

“This package puts the health interests of young Australians ahead of the profits of the spirits industry.

“Clearly we need a whole raft of initiatives to address harmful alcohol use across our community. 

The initiatives proposed today would be a huge step in the right direction.

“The package is in addition to previous initiatives announced by MCDS and COAG and represents a comprehensive approach to tackling the burden of alcohol in the community,” Mr Harper added.