Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health (Aug 2019)
Development of Australia's front‐of‐pack interpretative nutrition labelling Health Star Rating system: lessons for public health advocates
Abstract
Abstract Objectives: To draw advocacy lessons from actions undertaken by public health groups to assist the development of Australia and New Zealand's Health Star Rating (HSR) front‐of‐pack nutrition labelling system. Methods: The advocacy approaches undertaken by the Public Health Association of Australia leading up to the time of the adoption of the HSR is examined using a 10 step advocacy framework. Key roles in advocacy planning and implementation are described, along with coordinating efforts by health and consumer groups during the HSR development processes. Results: HSR aims to support consumers to make informed choices to protect from diet‐related diseases, including obesity. The HSR launched despite a number of major obstacles, owing to a strategic, coordinated advocacy effort undertaken by a guiding coalition. Conclusions: Actions to improve nutrition are often highly contested, particularly if the desired outcome competes with commercial interests. However, by deploying a structured approach to public health advocacy it is possible to influence government despite opposition from commercial interests. Implications for public health: A shared vision and a coordinated effort by public health professionals enabled advocates to overcome undue commercial influence.
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