Drinks industry statement on the ongoing bushfire crisis in Australia

‘On behalf of the Australian Beverages Council, representing the non-alcoholic beverages industry, we wish to express our deepest sympathies with those who have been affected by the continuing bushfire disaster across many parts of Australia,’ said Mr Geoff Parker, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Beverages Council.

‘We have been deeply saddened by the devastating impact of these unprecedented bushfires over the last few months, particularly over the festive period,’ he added.

Many Members of the Australian Beverages Council have already contributed generously to the bushfire crisis by providing beverages to those in need, through supply chain solutions and in the form of monetary donations.

In addition, the Australian Beverages Council has liaised with its not-for-profit partners about the best way for the drinks industry to continue to support communities in crisis.

The drinks industry regularly supports communities across the country when they have been affected by natural disaster.

‘The supply of safe, clean drinking water in the form of bottled, packaged and bulk water is part of any local or state disaster relief plan,’ said Mr Parker.

‘This vital support is made possible from reputable Member companies, both large and small, and we have witnessed an immediate response to the most recent bushfires from the drinks industry through the provision of drinking water, bulk water and logistical support,’ he added.

Mr Geoff Parker is available for interview about the response to the bushfire crisis by the drinks industry in Australia.

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Australian Beverages Council
The Australian Beverages Council is the peak body representing the collective interests of the non-alcoholic beverages industry. We strive to advance the industry as a whole, as well as successfully represent the range of beverages produced by our members. These include carbonated regular and diet soft drinks, energy drinks, sports and isotonic drinks, bottled and packaged waters, fruit juice and fruit drinks, cordials, iced teas, ready-to-drink coffees, flavoured milk and flavoured plant milk.

The unified voice of the Australian Beverages Council offers our members a presence beyond individual representation in order to promote fairness in the standards, regulations, and policies concerning non-alcoholic beverages.

The Australian Beverages Council introduced a dedicated juice division, Juice Australia (formerly Fruit Juice Australia), in 2009 and a dedicated water division, the Australasian Bottled Water Institute (ABWI), in 2011. Through these, our organisation, and its relevance and impact continue to grow.

For further information or to interview Geoff Parker, CEO, Australian Beverages Council:
Shae Courtney
Australian Beverages Council
T: 02 8313 7760
M: 0420 736 136
E: Shae@ausbev.org