Stop alcohol ads being shown to children

Product Description

Australia

Supporters

ACMA fails to protect children from alcohol ads

For decades alcohol ads have been shown to children on TV, especially during sports programs, even though it’s well known that alcohol ads cause some children to use alcohol.

That’s because the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) and previous regulators let it happen.

Making children to watch alcohol ads when they want to watch sport is unfair.

I’m William Spaul and I’ve taken ACMA to the Federal Court. I’m doing this on behalf of my 12-year-old son and because I want to protect all children in Australia from alcoho ads.

I’m alleging that by failing to protect chldren from alcohol ads on TV when it has the power to do so ACMA is committing unlawful age discrimination against children.

Why I need your support

ACMA is fighting the case. It says that it is reasonable for children to be exposed to alcohol ads if they watch sport on TV.

ACMA is represented by the Australian Government Solicitor and two barristers. It also employs its own lawyers.

I’m fighting ACMA single-handedly because because I believe I can win and cannot afford to pay lawyers to run the case for me. But I’m not doing it just for my son, I’m doing it for all children and all Australians.

All Australians will benefit when there are fewer alcohol ads on TV.

The Court recently ordered the parties to engage in mediation. The mediation will occur on 6 August 2024. The more money I can raise by then the better because being able to demonstrate financial support from members of the public will put me in a better position to negotiate with ACMA at the mediation.

What will the funds raised be used for?

The funds will be used for the fees of suitable lawyers while the court action or similar court actions continue, or put towards meeting a costs order if at any point I am ordered to pay the legal costs of the Commonwealth or another party. If there is any left-over money it would be donated to the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education to help reduce alcohol-related harm.

What do I want the Federal Court to do?

I’m asking the Court to declare that ACMA is engaging in unlawful discrimination and that it must cease doing so. That would force ACMA to reconsider its approach.

Anonymous

10 months ago

$25

Kate McCrohan

1 year ago

$100

Anonymous

1 year ago

$50

Elaine Vanags

1 year ago

$50

Barb Szychowska

1 year ago

$50

Jason Noack

1 year ago

$25

Anonymous

1 year ago

$50

Alexander Millier

1 year ago

$25

Rebecca Kathage

1 year ago

$25

Alina Jay

1 year ago

$75

Anonymous

1 year ago

$100

Anonymous

1 year ago

$50

Barb Szychowska

Great work with the campaign, William!

1 year ago

William Spaul

Avi Michael