The ‘obesity epidemic’ is sweeping Australia, and the amount of sugar sweetened drinks (SSDs) we consume are a major factor. Being obese or overweight increases the risk of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and joint and sleep problems.

It’s a health burden not shared equally; impacting more heavily on the socioeconomically disadvantaged, and on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Other countries have imposed a ‘sugar tax’ in the form of levies on SSDs, but should that happen here? It’s a complex question, involving political parties, consumer groups, public health agencies and the food/beverage industry.

With the help of a Flinders Foundation Seed Grant, Flinders’ Senior Research Fellow Dr Matthew Fisher’s research aims to help policy makers and the public better understand contemporary debates on measures to reduce overweight and obesity in Australia.

By clarifying the options and showing how different beliefs, values and interests can affect the both sides of the conversation, Dr Fisher’s research will help us all become better informed about the debate on an Australian ‘sugar tax’.

This research is made possible thanks to a generous supporter and donations from the community.

Project title: Sweet talk: Analysing perspectives on a ‘sugar tax’ as a response to obesity in Australia.

Lead researcher: Dr Matthew Fisher