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Qld govt’s junk food ad ban will cost outdoor industry $34m in revenue and impact local jobs, says OMA

The Outdoor Media Association (OMA) has hit out at the Queensland government’s decision this month to restrict junk food and alcohol out-of-home ads, claiming it will impact $34m of annual Queensland government revenue and threaten locals’ job security.

The OMA said it is, however, working with the government to find a “fair and sustainable” policy solution.

“While we understand and support the objective of the Queensland government to improve health outcomes, the way forward must be nuanced and involve industry,” said Charmaine Moldrich, CEO of the OMA.

“We are working with the Queensland government to find a way to achieve its objectives without creating adverse and unintended consequences for the state.”

In a statement provided to Mumbrella, the OMA stated that not only will the restrictions impact the government’s revenue from the government-owned OOH sites, but also “threaten the job security of the Queensland locals who are directly employed in OOH and the food and grocery industries”.

Aside from the impact on local jobs, Moldrich also suggested that the restriction may not even achieve its purpose: to reduce childhood obesity.

“Simply removing one type of ad won’t improve the health of Queenslanders. At 6% of the total advertising market, a ban targeting out of home advertising only is likely to see advertising dollars shift to other channels rather than disappear altogether,” she said.

“A collaborative approach that draws on the expertise of advertisers and the food industry will ensure a more sustainable and effective way forward.”

Health minister Steven Miles, who spearheaded the ban, said it will improve Queenslanders’ health

Moldrich emphasised the need for education and industry collaboration, and stated that the OMA is on board with improving Queenslanders’ health.

“Bringing about social change is incredibly complicated. A genuine commitment to improving the health of Queenslanders involves working with the multiple industries impacted to deliver a multi-faceted solution,” she said.

“The OMA has proposed a targeted educational campaign to raise awareness and promote healthy foods and healthy lifestyle. We look forward to continuing our work with the Queensland government to make a real difference to health in the state.”

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