Statement Attributed to Geoff Parker re. Calls for SSB Tax

Date: 18 September 2025

Statement attributable to Geoff Parker, CEO of the Australian Beverages Council Limited (ABCL)

The Australian Beverages Council Limited (ABCL) continues to support targeted, effective policies that address the growing rates of non-communicable disease (NCDs) in Australia. Internationally, the United Nations has repeatedly considered and rejected taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages due to the lack of evidence that they have a meaningful impact in reducing NCD rates. In reality, taxes of this nature are regressive and disproportionately affect lower-income households. This failure to meet the evidentiary test is why the measure is not included among the World Health Organisation’s “Best Buys” interventions, which highlight the most cost-effective recommended policies to address NCDs.  

The non-alcoholic beverage industry has led the way, engaging in voluntary initiatives to provide consumers with more drink choices and better information to support informed dietary decisions. Through the industry’s Sugar Reduction Pledge, more than 222,000 tonnes of sugar has been eliminated from Australian diets over the past 10 years through product innovation and reformulation, shifts in marketing strategies to promote low- and no-sugar options, and initiatives empowering Australian consumers to make informed choices, including through tools like the Health Star Rating scheme. 

 The ABCL will continue to support evidence-based policies that address the complex challenges of NCD prevention and improved public health. 

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