By Andrew Starke
The Australian Greens today welcomed the passing of the alcopops legislation through the Senate, which included $50m of health promotion measures negotiated by the Greens.
“The Greens have always focused on getting more action to tackle problem drinking in the community, and we have seen that the alcopops tax has had a positive impact,” said Australian Greens health spokesperson Senator Rachel Siewert.
“We negotiated this $50m health promotion strategy because the Greens have always argued that a price increase is only one measure in the comprehensive approach that is needed to address this problem."
“This is a win for the community and a win for the Greens. These measures will go to helping alleviate the impacts of harmful drinking in this country.”
“After a long and protracted debate, it is good to see an outcome that will result in positive movement aimed at tackling binge drinking in this country.”
“This is a very positive step forward, and the Greens will continue to work for further health promotion measures to address this problem,” she concluded.