Introduction: The World Health Organization states there is unequivocal evidence that food marketing influences food preferences and eating habits. This study aimed to investigate local government perspectives on restricting unhealthy food advertising on local government-owned infrastructure.
Methods: This qualitative study utilised individual and small-group interviews with representatives from LGs and other public health organisations across WA. Data were collected between June and October 2024 using semi-structured discussion guides. Purposive sampling ensured participants represented diverse LGs based on socio-economic status, geographic location, and annual revenue. A general inductive approach was used to analyse data.
Results: Thirty-four stakeholders from 15 LGs participated in the study. The main themes were: (1) policy understanding and interest; (2) policy development and approval; and (3) policy implementation and enforcement. Several barriers and enablers affecting policy development, adoption, and implementation were identified, influencing LG capacity, interest, and readiness. LGs with a clear commitment to protecting public health placed greater priority on developing a policy but identified the need for consistent definitions (e.g. unhealthy food) and frameworks (e.g. monitoring compliance of advertising agencies) to support them in this endeavour.
Conclusion: This study highlighted the need for additional support for LGs to adopt effective policies restricting unhealthy food advertising. Recommendations included offering targeted training for LG officers to build capacity in policy implementation and fostering partnerships with public health organisations to provide cohesive support and resources. Tools to simplify the process of consistently and accurately identifying foods that require advertising restrictions are important. Addressing these factors can significantly strengthen future policy efforts to reduce unhealth food advertising on government-owned infrastructure.