Starting in July 2025, South Australia will officially ban junk food advertising on public transport as part of an effort to combat obesity rates and improve public health. This new legislation is a step toward reducing unhealthy food marketing, particularly among children, in an effort to address the growing obesity crisis. While this ban marks a shift in advertising standards, it also presents an opportunity for brands to shift their marketing strategies to peer-driven platforms like MOA.
The Impact of the Junk Food Advertising Ban:
- Why the Ban Was Introduced: The South Australian government introduced the ban on junk food advertising as part of a broader initiative to improve public health. The rise in obesity rates, especially among children, has been attributed in part to the pervasive marketing of unhealthy foods. By restricting junk food ads on public transport, the government aims to limit exposure to such ads, reducing the pressure on consumers to choose unhealthy options.
- The Role of Public Transport Advertising: Public transport advertising has long been a popular platform for advertisers to reach a wide audience. However, with the new ban in place, this medium will no longer be available for junk food companies to promote their products. With public transport as a significant advertising channel now off-limits, brands will need to look for alternative ways to reach commuters and other key demographics.
The Shift to Peer-Driven Advertising:
- Peer-Driven Advertising Platforms: As traditional advertising platforms like public transport become more regulated, advertisers are increasingly turning to peer-driven advertising platforms like MOA. MOA’s mobile outdoor advertising model offers a dynamic and flexible solution for brands seeking to reach on-the-go consumers without the constraints of public transport advertising.
- Targeting Commuters with MOA: Through MOA, brands can continue to advertise to commuters and people in transit, much like they would have with public transport ads. However, MOA’s ability to target specific routes, neighborhoods, and peak times ensures greater precision in reaching relevant audiences. Additionally, MOA’s mobile format means that ads can travel to areas that public transport ads may not reach, expanding the potential for increased visibility.
- Environmentally Friendly Option: Unlike traditional public transport advertising, MOA also offers a more sustainable option. With an increasing focus on environmental responsibility, many MOA vehicles are electric, contributing to lower emissions and supporting green initiatives, which aligns with the values of eco-conscious consumers.
The ban on junk food advertising on public transport in South Australia signals a shift toward healthier marketing standards, but it also creates an opportunity for brands to explore alternative advertising platforms like MOA. By adopting MOA’s flexible, peer-driven advertising model, brands can continue to reach key audiences in a way that aligns with new regulatory standards while promoting sustainability and engagement.
Find out how MOA can boost your reach. Visit www.moamedia.com.au/advertise
South Australia Junk Food Ban (https://glamadelaide.com.au/south-australia-bans-junk-food-ads-on-public-transport-to-combat-obesity-crisis/#:~:text=Starting%20July%202025%2C%20South%20Australia,rates%20and%20improve%20public%20health.)