12 November, 2025
The Hon. R.A. SIMMS (21:31): I am disappointed to note the position of the Labor and Liberal parties on this. This was a very modest proposal; it was based on a system that has worked quite effectively in the City of London, where they have a prohibition on fast-food outlets and junk food outlets within 500 metres of schools. It is also a proposition that was informed by community feedback.
In the Adelaide Hills, I was contacted by residents in near Heathfield Primary School, who are very concerned about a 7-Eleven that was being opened up directly opposite their school—it is a big issue within that community. It is also a big issue in the southern suburbs, and in particular I refer to 'junk food corner' near Christies Beach High School, where there are a number of issues with antisocial behaviour within the school that are linked to the proximity of the fast-food outlets next to the school.
I have certainly had feedback from a variety of schools that having fast-food outlets so close to schools contributes to antisocial behaviour within the classroom. It makes it difficult for students to be able to concentrate, because they are more likely to consume fast-food and fatty food at lunch, and it also can create a bit of a space for antisocial behaviour as well.
There is a lot of feedback that I have had from different constituents around the benefit of this. I am disappointed that the Labor and Liberal parties are not supportive. There is an election just around the corner. I will be sure to remind community members in the impacted electorates of the position of the Labor and Liberal parties when I am out on the hustings. Given this was a key issue that has been raised with me for action, I will be sure to remind them that the roadblock of reform in this space is the Labor government, aided by the Liberal opposition.