Appeal from Medical Experts Urges Implementation of ‘Sugar Tax’ to Combat Obesity and Chronic Diseases

An additional “sugar tax” on sweetened beverages might be implemented in Australia in response to the high rates of obesity and chronic disease among Australians. The Australian Medical Association (AMA) and the Australian Dental Association (ADA) have both called for the tax, stating that it would send a strong message about the unhealthy nature of sugary drinks. AMA President Professor Steve Robson highlighted the negative impact of sugary drinks on Australians’ health, particularly children and adults suffering from chronic diseases.

Dr. Stephen Liew, federal president of the ADA, emphasized the cost of tooth decay caused by sweetened beverages, which amounted to over $4 billion in 2019. He explained that the acidity and nutritional value of these drinks contribute to tooth decay, resulting in various oral health issues.

The proposed tax, known as the Sugar Sweetened Beverage Tax (SSBT), would reduce sugar consumption from soft drinks by 12 to 18 percent and generate $749 to $814 million in tax revenue annually, according to the AMA. The additional revenue could be reinvested in health programs, benefiting the population.

The Grattan Institute also supports the sugar tax, stating that it would help recoup some of the costs of obesity, which amounts to over $5.3 billion per year. They recommend an excise tax of 40 cents per 100 grams of sugar on all non-alcoholic, water-based drinks with added sugar. This tax would raise around $500 million annually and lead to a 15 percent decrease in the consumption of sugary beverages.

While the proposed tax is not seen as a complete solution to Australia’s obesity epidemic, it is believed to encourage healthier lifestyles. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) reported alarming rates of overweight and obese adults and children in the country.

However, the Australian Beverages Council opposes the sugar tax, arguing that it would strain family finances without effectively addressing the long-standing problem of obesity. They claim that Australians have already been reducing their consumption of sugary drinks without the need for regressive taxes.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has been advocating for a global sugar tax and released a tax manual for sugar-sweetened beverages in December 2022. The WHO highlighted countries such as Mexico, South Africa, and the United Kingdom that have implemented successful sugar taxes. The WHO emphasizes the negative health effects of sugary drinks and the potential benefits of implementing taxes to reduce consumption.

Despite the opposition, the AMA, ADA, and Grattan Institute remain convinced that a sugar tax is necessary to address obesity and its associated health risks in Australia. They argue that it would not only deter consumption but also generate revenue for health programs. The proposed tax is seen as one of several strategies required to combat the multifaceted problem of obesity.



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