CANCER Council Victoria has slammed a decision by the Alcohol Beverages Advertising Code (ABAC) scheme, after it only partially upheld complaints against Billson’s Brewery’s product packaging and social media posts for its ready-to-drink vodkas.

Cancer Council Victoria (CCV) had previously lodged a complaint to ABAC about bright, colourful packaging found on Billson’s ‘Tangle’ and ‘Twister’ ready-to-drink alcohol products appealing to children and promoted on Tik Tok.

The complaint was not upheld, however, a second complaint about the company’s ‘Lamington’ vodka featuring appealing baked goods on its packaging was upheld as having strong or evident appeal to minors.

CCV alcohol programs manager Alison McAleese said it was the fourth time this year Billson’s had come under fire for its product packaging and “negligent” marketing tactics.

“This recent decision demonstrates the voluntary, industry-led ABAC scheme is clearly failing the ‘pub test’ to protect our children and young people from harmful alcohol advertising,” Ms McAleese said.

“This year alone ABAC has received and dismissed 20 complaints about Billson’s ready-to-drink alcohol products, with only 10 complaints upheld.

“What’s also concerning is ABAC’s lack of sanctions to deter companies like Billson’s from rolling out new sweet-flavoured alcohol products with colourful can designs to replace similar drinks previously found to breach the code.”

A 2017 Australian survey found 43 per cent of 12-year-olds and 85pc of 17-year-olds had tried alcohol.

“Industry has set its sights on hooking young people on alcohol early with fruit, candy or dessert-flavoured drinks and colourful packaging to attract attention and build brand awareness,” Ms McAleese said.

“With the recent backlash around ‘Hard Solo’ that saw ABAC back down from its initial pre-vetting decision, it’s clear this voluntary scheme, backed by the alcohol and advertising industries, is failing our young people.”

Billson’s Brewery was contacted for comment, but was yet to respond at the time of going to print.