Parent advocacy group Parents’ Voice welcomed the announcement by the federal Opposition that they would invest in obesity prevention by implementing a National Obesity Strategy.
The federal Opposition have outlined their plan for action, which includes mandating the Health Star Rating system and food reformulation targets, strategies to increase physical activity and improved nutrition, a national roll-out of the Live Lighter campaign, funding for the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation and a review of junk food advertising to children.
Campaigns Manager, Alice Pryor, is pleased to see action on junk food advertising to children included. “We know marketing works, it influences the food choices made by children and parents. Over 40 per cent of the energy in the average Australian child’s diet comes from junk food.”
“Each year we highlight, via our Fame and Shame Awards,the tactics the food industry use to target children. Every year we’re shocked at the amount of junk food advertising our children are exposed to. It is time to stop letting the industry call the shots.”
In a survey conducted by Parents’ Voice, 81.7 per cent of parents supported the compulsory introduction of the Health Star Rating system.
“Parents are concerned about the contents of packaged foods, but are pressed for time while shopping.” Ms Pryor added, “Front of pack labelling and product reformulation are essential parts of making our food environments healthier and easier to navigate for parents and children.”
Plans to support Australians to increase their physical activity levels were also well received. “Being active is key to leading a healthy, good quality life.” Ms Pryor said, “It assists children to grow strong bones and have good muscle strength, enhances their mental wellbeing, increases their chance of being a healthy weight and lowers their risk of developing chronic conditions.”
“With 1 in 4 children above a healthy weight, we need action now to reverse this trend and ensure that our children live long, healthy lives.”
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Media contacts:
Alice Pryor 0416 219 261 alice@parentsvoice.org.au
Rebecca Hall 0412 104 747 rebecca@parentsvoice.org.au
About Parents’ Voice
Parents’ Voice is an online network of parents who are interested in improving the food and activity environments of Australian children. Formerly known as The Parents’ Jury, Parents’ Voice was formed in 2004 and represents thousands of Australian parents, carers, and health professionals. Parents’ Voice is supported by Diabetes Victoria, VicHealth and YMCA Victoria.
