NCJ Number
122658
Date Published
1989
Length
13 pages
Annotation
The Australian government has been less active than other countries' governments in responding to the health issues raised by tobacco, but the informational and regulatory efforts, the actions of private citizens, and other efforts in the private sector had reduced the power of the tobacco, advertising, and media industries in Australia by 1988.
Abstract
Tobacco consumption benefits the tobacco farmers, the people employed in the manufacture and sale of tobacco products, the advertising industry and the media, and tax revenues. However, tobacco also imposes burdens on the economy in terms of absenteeism, lost productivity, and health problems. The failure of Australian governments to protect citizens effectively from the health hazards of tobacco results mainly from the efforts of the diverse coalition of interests that support tobacco. In addition, the Australian public does not view smoking and its consequences for public health as a serious problem. However, warning labels on packages and restrictions on advertising are part of the response. In addition, individual citizens have brought suit against tobacco companies, and some life insurance companies offer discounts to nonsmokers. Nevertheless, the cigarette industry will not decline for many years, although it is now diversifying, marketing in developing nations, and investing in research to reduce harmful substances in their products. 15 reference notes.