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Exploring Australia’s Potential Crackdown on Infant Formula Ads: A Move to Protect Breastfeeding Rates

The Australian federal government is currently seeking public feedback on the possibility of enacting laws to regulate the marketing of infant formula in the country. This consultation process is open for submissions until the 10th of April.

The Background

Prior to February 2025, a voluntary agreement had been set in place in which Australian formula brands pledged not to advertise formula products for infants aged 12 months or less. This agreement was instituted as part of an effort to encourage and safeguard breastfeeding practices. However, recent statistics have shown that the rates of breastfeeding in Australia are not as high as desired. This has prompted the government to consider not renewing the voluntary agreement and instead, exploring more stringent measures.

These proposed measures are not intended to explicitly promote breastfeeding. The main objective is to curb marketing practices that present formula as a better or equivalent alternative to breastfeeding.

The Problem with Formula Advertising

Breastfeeding offers numerous health benefits for both the mother and child. These include protection against gastrointestinal and respiratory infections for newborns, decreased risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes later in life for the child, and a lower risk of ovarian and breast cancer for the mothers.

In light of these benefits, Australian guidelines propose exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a child’s life. Additionally, the World Health Organization recommends continued breastfeeding for the first two years.

Despite high rates of breastfeeding at birth in Australia, these rates significantly decrease over time. In 2022, it was reported that only 37% of babies were exclusively breastfed by the time they reached six months.

There are various reasons why mothers choose not to breastfeed, but the advertising of formula products is a key area of concern. It has been found to muddle parents’ understanding of the nutritional benefits of breastfeeding versus formula, reduce the initiation and duration of breastfeeding, and position formula as a more favorable solution to breastfeeding challenges.

The Role of Online Advertising

Online advertising operates differently from traditional forms of advertisement. Online ads target individuals based on their search history, browsing activities, or significant life events. As such, they can reach new or expectant parents at times when they may be most uncertain or susceptible to suggestions.

Analysis of Infant Formula Ads

An analysis of online formula advertisements targeting parents in Australia was conducted by the ADM+S Australian Ad Observatory. The study found that formula brands used various tactics to appeal to parents. These included highlighting positive customer reviews, offering free downloadable resources such as cookbooks and baby proofing guides, and partnering with prominent retailers to direct individuals to online shopping platforms.

Potential Government Actions

The government is contemplating several options, including maintaining the status quo with no regulation, introducing legislation that mirrors the former voluntary agreement, or introducing legislation that also restricts the marketing of toddler milk for children aged one to three years.

Questions & Answers

What are the benefits of breastfeeding for mothers and children?
Breastfeeding offers significant health benefits, including protection against gastrointestinal and respiratory infections for newborns, decreased risks of obesity and type 2 diabetes later in life for the child, and a reduced risk of ovarian and breast cancer for the mother.

Why is the advertising of infant formula products a concern?
Advertising can confuse parents about the nutritional benefits of breastmilk versus formula, decrease the initiation and duration of breastfeeding, and present formula as a more favorable solution to breastfeeding challenges.

What potential actions is the Australian government considering?
The government is considering several options including maintaining the status quo with no regulation, introducing legislation that mirrors the former voluntary agreement, or introducing legislation that also restricts the marketing of toddler milk for children aged one to three years.

March 17, 2026
Will Australia Clamp Down on Infant Formula Ads? Exploring New Federal Consultation on Marketing Restrictions

Australian Government Considers Infant Formula Marketing Regulations

The Australian federal government recently invited public responses to a consultation paper, exploring the potential introduction of laws to limit or completely halt the marketing of infant formula across the country. This open consultation has been set to terminate by April 10.

Since February 2025, manufacturers of Australian infant formula have been adhering to an agreement, albeit voluntary, to avoid advertising formula milk products for babies who have not yet reached their first birthdays. The unstated goal of this agreement was to encourage and safeguard the practice of breastfeeding.

However, with recent statistics indicating a lower-than-expected rate of breastfeeding in the country, the government has decided against renewing the voluntary arrangement. Instead, it is now considering implementing stricter measures.

While these new measures do not directly advocate breastfeeding, they are designed to curb marketing strategies that present formula milk as a similar or better alternative.

Our evaluation of online ads for infant formula aimed at Australian parents shows that companies exploit parental fears. This also illustrates the issues arising from a voluntary arrangement.

The Problem with Formula Advertising

Breastfeeding offers substantial health benefits to both the mother and baby. These include safeguarding newborns from gastrointestinal and respiratory infections, lowering the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes in later life, and reducing the likelihood that mothers will develop ovarian and breast cancer.

For these reasons, Australian guidelines advise exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months after birth. The World Health Organization recommends continued breastfeeding for the first two years.

In Australia, while breastfeeding rates are high at birth, they swiftly decline. Only 37% of babies were reported to be exclusively breastfed by six months in 2022.

There are various factors contributing to a mother’s decision not to breastfeed, but advertising of formula products is a key concern. Such advertising has been shown to create confusion among parents about the nutritional benefits of formula versus breast milk, decrease breastfeeding initiation and duration, and present formula as a superior choice in the face of breastfeeding difficulties.

Formula milk is crucial and often the only option for those who cannot breastfeed. However, it is also costly and can place financial stress on families, especially during the first year of a child’s life.

Online advertising differs significantly from traditional ads. Online, ads are targeted based on people’s search and browsing histories or life events, reaching new or expecting parents at times when they may be most uncertain or susceptible to suggestion.

Infant Formula Advertisements: What Are They Promising?

The ADM+S Australian Ad Observatory, which we and our colleagues manage, collects data on ads encountered by Australians online in order to understand how digital advertising systems work.

In 2022, we collected ads from 1200 Australian adults who voluntarily installed a plug-in on their browsers to capture ads while they browsed Facebook. Since 2025, we have been collecting ads from about 300 Australians who use an app to share ads that appear while they scroll through Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube on their phones.

In this analysis, we studied ads collected in both years and identified 158 ads promoting formula products from local and international brands.

We found brands used various tactics to attract parents. Some highlighted positive customer reviews or offered complimentary downloadable cookbooks and baby-proofing guides for homes.

Other ads were in collaboration with prominent retailers, directing people to online shopping interfaces with “buy now” buttons.

Most formula brands made some claims about the nutritional or behavioural benefits of their products. These claims exploit the anxiety parents often feel about their children meeting nutritional, sleep and developmental milestones.

Some manufacturers claimed their product was fortified with vitamins and prebiotics that would “improve gut health” or help a toddler sleep longer at night.

Others claimed their formula would give mothers “a moment of calm” or strengthen their toddler’s immune system. This is despite scientific evidence showing that breast milk can provide necessary antibodies to a sick child in real time.

Starting early: The Problem with the Voluntary Advertising Agreement

Many ads used images of very young toddlers who could easily be mistaken for infants aged 12 months or under. In one case, we found an ad explicitly promoting formula designed for babies under 12 months.

This, along with the use of images of very young children to market ‘toddler milk’ (formula marketed for children aged one to three years), underscores some of the problems with a voluntary advertising agreement.

Since toddler milk marketing was exempt, brands could target parents of newborns. This would generate brand awareness and consumer trust, potentially leading a parent to choose to start their child on formula instead – or earlier than they otherwise would.

Enforcement has also been a challenge. The penalties for violating the agreement – listing the breach on the Department of Health website – have not been viewed as severe enough by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.

Moreover, the digital advertising environment offers little visibility into what marketing is actually in circulation or who is being exposed to it.

Outside of specialised research tools like our Ad Observatory and the Australian Internet Observatory, there is no systematic method for observing infant formula ads appearing on personalised social media feeds.

Potential Government Actions

The government is mulling over several options:

Maintaining the status quo – no regulation.
Introducing legislation mirroring the former voluntary agreement, preventing promotion of infant formula (for babies aged 12 months or under).
Introducing legislation that also restricts toddler milk marketing (for children aged one to three years).
We have provided all our data to the government to assist in the decision-making process. However, while the ads we discovered provide a glimpse behind the scenes, they likely underestimate the extent of formula marketing happening online.

Infant formula can be a critical, sometimes life-saving, intervention for families in need. However, health interventions do not require persuasive advertising to fulfil their purpose.

The essential policy question is whether a product designed to support infants should be promoted through the same marketing systems selling snack foods, cosmetics and financial products.

Questions & Answers

Why is the Australian government considering legislation to restrict infant formula marketing?
The Australian government is considering this move due to concerns over lower-than-expected rates of breastfeeding in the country. There is a belief that marketing strategies by formula manufacturers might be presenting formula as a preferable choice to breastfeeding, potentially influencing parents’ decisions.

What are the key issues with formula advertising?
Formula advertising may cause confusion among parents about the nutritional benefits of formula versus breast milk. Ads may also suggest that formula is a superior alternative when facing breastfeeding challenges. Furthermore, these ads may exploit parents’ anxieties about their children’s nutritional and developmental needs.

What are the potential options the government is considering regarding the regulation of infant formula marketing?
The government is considering several options: maintaining the current situation with no regulation; introducing legislation similar to the former voluntary agreement that prevents the promotion of infant formula for babies aged 12 months or under; or introducing legislation that also restricts the marketing of toddler milk for children aged one to three years.

March 17, 2026
Mondelez Revives ’90s Classic: In A Biskit Crispy Potato Hits Australian Shelves Again!

Mondelez International, the multinational snack and food conglomerate, has reintroduced its In A Biskit Crispy Potato flavor into the Australian market, a product that first gained popularity in the 1990s.

Reviving a Vintage Snack

The revived snack is made from genuine potato flakes and has a thin, baked texture, offering consumers a delightful crunch with every bite. This classic flavor holds a fond memory for many Australians, serving as a favorite snack during leisurely afternoons spent solving Rubik’s Cubes or rewinding VHS tapes.

Modern Packaging for a Classic Product

In an effort to appeal to both original consumers and a new generation of customers, the product’s packaging has been updated to a more modern design. The classic snack is available in 145g packs with a recommended retail price of $4. The packs are available nationwide at IGA, Woolworths, and Coles retail stores.

Mondelez Performance

In the recent past, Mondelez has reported growth in its annual sales. However, this positive trend was somewhat offset by a decline in profit margins due to the high cost of cocoa, a key ingredient in many of the company’s products.

Questions & Answers

What is the key feature of the reintroduced In A Biskit Crispy Potato flavor?
The reintroduced snack is made from real potato flakes and offers a thin, baked texture.

How has Mondelez updated the product for modern consumers?
Mondelez has modernized the packaging of the product to appeal to both original consumers and a new generation of snack lovers.

What factors affected Mondelez’s recent financial performance?
While the company reported growth in annual sales, its profit was impacted by the high cost of cocoa, a key ingredient in many of its products.

March 17, 2026
Perth Welcomes Australia’s First Buffalo Milk Ice Cream: A Delectable Quindanning Buffalo and Mica Creamery Collaboration

Western Australia is about to get its first taste of buffalo milk ice cream, thanks to a new collaboration between Quindanning Buffalo and Mica Creamery.

The limited-edition dessert is set to hit Mica Creamery stores across Perth from March 13. The product is produced in small quantities, using buffalo milk sourced locally. Ice cream enthusiasts can look forward to two tantalising flavours, Classic Vanilla and Rich Hazelnut Chocolate.

Buffalo Milk: A Creamier Alternative

Buffalo milk is renowned for its natural creaminess, a characteristic that lends itself well to the creation of exceptional dairy products. Its higher fat content compared to cow’s milk results in a denser and creamier texture, enhancing the overall taste and experience.

Speaking on the collaboration, Graeme Carthy, owner of Quindanning Buffalo, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership with Mica. He stated that Mica shared Quindanning Buffalo’s commitment to quality and artisanal products, making them an ideal partner to bring this unique ice cream to the residents of Perth.

This joint venture is more than just the creation of a new ice cream flavour. It represents an opportunity for buffalo milk, a less common ingredient in Australia, to be introduced to a wider retail audience.

Questions & Answers

What is unique about the new ice cream product?
The new ice cream is unique as it is the first in Western Australia to be made from buffalo milk, which is known for its natural creaminess and higher fat content.

Where and when will the buffalo milk ice cream be available?
The buffalo milk ice cream will be available at Mica Creamery stores across Perth from March 13.

Why did Quindanning Buffalo choose to partner with Mica Creamery for this product?
Quindanning Buffalo chose to partner with Mica Creamery as they share a passion for quality and artisanal products. The collaboration aims to introduce buffalo milk to a wider retail audience through this unique ice cream product.

March 10, 2026
US Bourbon Brands Joseph Magnus & Fox & Oden Make Australian Splash: Unveiling Four Exceptional Expressions

CraftCo Brands, a renowned American spirits company, has announced plans to bring its prestigious bourbon labels, Joseph Magnus & Co and Fox & Oden, to Australian markets. The venture will be realized through an exclusive distribution deal with Honey Barrel.

The first batch set to grace Australian shores includes four distinctive expressions: Joseph Magnus Cigar Blend Bourbon, Murray Hill Club Bourbon, Jos A Magnus Bourbon, and Fox & Oden Double Oak Bourbon.

Strategic Entry into Australian Market

Ali Anderson, the CEO of CraftCo Brands, revealed that the move into Australia is a calculated strategy, given the country’s deep-rooted whiskey knowledge and high standards. He stated that the entrance into the Australian market is far from casual, considering the heightened expectations and sophisticated whiskey knowledge present.

The CEO further emphasized that Joseph Magnus and Fox & Oden are designed on a foundation of blending precision combined with expert finishing. He expressed his belief that the Australian consumers will highly appreciate this level of craftsmanship.

Distinctive Flavors and Expert Craftsmanship

CraftCo has an impressive reputation for its Joseph Magnus range, particularly for its blending and cask-finishing techniques. On the other hand, Fox & Oden Double Oak stands out for its intricate barrel selection process and secondary maturation, which significantly contributes to the development of its unique flavor profile.

Honey Barrel’s Kia Rasteh and Jack Carter expressed their confidence in the brands and their anticipation for the collaborative endeavor with the CraftCo team. They disclosed their long-standing admiration for the brands and their reputation for crafting memorable, high-quality whiskeys through expert blending and finishing.

The duo also acknowledged Australia’s world-class bar and whiskey culture, expressing their certainty that these expressions will secure their spot on top-tier back bars and retail shelves.

Availability

Starting this month, Joseph Magnus & Co and Fox & Oden will be readily available through select premium retailers and on-premise venues nationwide.

Questions & Answers

What is the strategy behind CraftCo Brands’ entry into the Australian market?

CraftCo Brands views Australia as a strategic market due to its deep whiskey knowledge and high standards. The company believes the Australian consumers will appreciate the high level of craftsmanship in their products.

What are the distinctive characteristics of the Joseph Magnus and Fox & Oden brands?

Joseph Magnus is known for its expert blending and cask-finishing techniques while Fox & Oden Double Oak is renowned for its intricate barrel selection process and secondary maturation, contributing to its unique flavor profile.

Where will Joseph Magnus & Co and Fox & Oden be available in Australia?

Beginning this month, these brands will be available at select premium retailers and on-premise venues nationwide in Australia.

March 10, 2026
Coca-Cola Unveils New Absolut Vodka & Sprite Fusion: A Game Changer in Australia’s Ready-to-Drink Market

Coca-Cola Australia has broadened its alcoholic ready-to-drink range with the introduction of mixed drinks featuring Absolut Vodka and Sprite.

Varieties in the New Range

The new product line includes two distinct variants: Absolut Vodka Mixed with Sprite and Absolut Vodka Mixed with Sprite Zero Sugar. Both the versions maintain a modest alcohol by volume (ABV) content of 5 per cent, offered in 330ml cans.

Available Packaging Options

Customers have the option to buy these beverages in 4-packs, 10-packs, or bulk 24-can cases. The range of packaging options caters to different customer needs, whether it’s for personal consumption or a social gathering.

Developing a Premium, Refreshing RTD Option

Matthias Blume, Vice President of ARTD at Coca-Cola Australia, spoke about the recent launch. He stated that the introduction of Absolut Vodka Mixed With Sprite is a fusion of two renowned brands, aiming to provide a high-quality, invigorating ready-to-drink option for consumers in Australia. He also emphasized that this product is a valuable addition to their expanding ARTD portfolio, as it mirrors the ongoing momentum of the category and responds to the increasing consumer demand.

Notably, this isn’t Absolut Vodka’s first foray into creative flavor combinations. The brand had previously collaborated with Tabasco to introduce a spicy flavor variant to its range.

Questions & Answers

What are the two versions of the new product launched by Coca-Cola Australia?
Absolut Vodka Mixed with Sprite and Absolut Vodka Mixed with Sprite Zero Sugar are the two versions introduced in the new range.

What are the available packaging options for this new range?
Consumers can purchase these beverages in 4-packs, 10-packs, or 24-can cases.

What is the significance of this new product range according to Matthias Blume, VP ARTD at Coca-Cola Australia?
Matthias Blume suggests that the introduction of Absolut Vodka Mixed With Sprite reflects not only the momentum of the category but also the increasing consumer demand. It is intended to provide a premium, refreshing ready-to-drink option for Australian consumers.

March 6, 2026
Sweet Success: Honey Australia Buzzes into Middle East Market with Exclusive Lulu Hypermarket Partnership

The family-owned Australian brand, Honey Australia, has recently extended its reach into the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) through an exclusive collaboration with the Lulu Group.

Honey Australia’s premium products are now widely available across Lulu Hypermarket locations throughout the GCC. The launch of their partnership was celebrated with an in-store event in Qatar.

Nick Maiolo, the co-founder of Honey Australia, expressed immense pride in this exclusive partnership with the Lulu Group for the brand’s GCC expansion. He stated, “As a family-owned enterprise that has been closely working with Australian beekeepers for several generations, it’s an honor to have our products included within Lulu’s premium Australian range, and being introduced to customers across the Middle East.”

The regional introduction of Honey Australia is in line with the company’s participation at Gulfood, a leading food and beverage industry event. This provided the company an opportunity to connect with buyers and distribution partners to further fortify its market presence.

Honey Australia’s expansion is not limited to the Middle East alone, as the company also has plans to extend its reach in other regions worldwide.

Questions & Answers

What is Honey Australia’s new partnership?
Honey Australia has entered an exclusive partnership with the Lulu Group, helping them expand into the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.

What event marked the launch of this partnership?
The launch of the partnership was celebrated with an in-store event in Qatar.

What is Honey Australia’s future expansion plan?
While they have recently expanded into the GCC, Honey Australia intends to further increase their global presence by branching out into other regions around the world.

February 26, 2026
Retail Giant AS Watson Eyes Major Move into Australian Market with Potential $500M Pharmacy Acquisition

AS Watson, a Hong Kong-based health and beauty retailer, is potentially planning a move into the Australian market. The company is believed to be considering an acquisition of over 90 pharmacies in Australia.

Expansion into Australia

The company’s interest is reportedly focused on 92 Priceline pharmacies, previously under the operation of Infinity Pharmacy Group. This move will represent AS Watson’s debut into the Australian market. The company is said to be planning a comprehensive review of these pharmacies, which indicates serious intent towards the acquisition.

It is suggested that executives from AS Watson had visited Australia several years prior and had discussions with the founding partner of Infinity. These visits may well have laid the groundwork for the current acquisition proposal. However, a spokesperson for the group declined to provide any comment on these market speculations.

The Players Involved

AS Watson is a part of CK Hutchison Holdings – a major commercial conglomerate based in Hong Kong. On the other side of the equation, the Priceline brand is owned by Australian conglomerate, Wesfarmers, while Infinity Pharmacy Group functions as a franchisee of the chain.

In a recent development, Wesfarmers placed approximately half of Infinity’s stores into receivership, following a period of enduring financial difficulties. These financial struggles have led to the sale of the 92 Priceline stores, managed by Infinity’s administrator, Teneo.

The Sale Process

Teneo, responsible for the administration of the sale process, is said to be seeking a minimum sale price of AU$500 million for these 92 Priceline stores.

Questions & Answers

What is the significance of this potential acquisition by AS Watson?
The acquisition could mark AS Watson’s entry into the Australian market, expanding its global footprint.

Who currently owns the Priceline brand and the affected pharmacies?
The Priceline brand is owned by Wesfarmers, an Australian conglomerate. The affected pharmacies were previously operated by Infinity Pharmacy Group, a franchisee of the chain.

What is the expected price for the sale of these 92 Priceline stores?
The administrator overseeing the sale, Teneo, is reportedly seeking a minimum price of AU$500 million for the stores.

February 23, 2026
UBS Taps 30-Year Veteran Andrew Bird to Spearhead Australian Wealth Management Division

UBS, the multinational investment bank and financial services company, recently declared the appointment of Andrew Bird as its new Head of Global Wealth Management (GWM) for Australia. With a career spanning three decades and a previous tenure at UBS, Bird brings valuable experience and expertise to the role.

New Head of Wealth Management

Andrew Bird has officially taken over as Head of Global Wealth Management for UBS Australia, from April 27. In addition to his primary role, Bird is joining the bank’s GWM management team, overseeing operations in diverse regions including Southeast Asia, Japan, India, and Australia. He will also play a substantial part in the Australia Country Management Forum.

Bird’s base of operations will be in Sydney, where he will report directly to Jin Yee Young, the Co-Head of GWM APAC. At the local level, Bird will coordinate with the Co-Country Heads of Australasia, Nick Hughes and Greg Peirce.

Experienced Professional

Bird’s professional journey spans over 30 years in wealth management and institutional markets. His most recent role was leading the wealth management division at National Australia Bank’s JBWere for the past decade. Bird is no stranger to UBS. Here, he previously served as the Market Manager for Melbourne in the wealth unit. Bird’s distinguished career also includes holding senior private banking positions at Credit Suisse and Citi.

UBS has confirmed Bird’s appointment and his outlined responsibilities through a spokesperson.

Questions & Answers

Who has been appointed as the new Head of Global Wealth Management for UBS Australia?
Andrew Bird has been appointed as the new Head of Global Wealth Management for UBS Australia.

What other roles will Andrew Bird be undertaking at UBS?
Aside from his chief role, Bird will join the GWM management team, responsible for Southeast Asia, Japan, India, and Australia. He will also participate in the Australia Country Management Forum.

What is Andrew Bird’s professional background?
With over 30 years of experience across wealth management and institutional markets, Bird has previously worked for National Australia Bank’s JBWere, Credit Suisse, and Citi. His prior role at UBS was as the Market Manager for Melbourne in the wealth unit.

February 16, 2026
Australian Fashion Powerhouse Zimmermann Debuts in Bangkok’s IconSiam: A New World of Style and Art

Zimmermann, a renowned Australian fashion brand, has broadened its global presence with the inauguration of its debut store in Thailand, situated within IconSiam, Bangkok.

Store Design and Highlights

The boutique, created by Studio McQualter, is characterized by an expansive display of large windows, showcasing an array of ready-to-wear garments and accessories. Inside, the store encapsulates a 1970s Italian-inspired vibe, with Dutch Art Deco tables serving as the centerpiece.

The boutique’s ready-to-wear selection is presented across wall-mounted rails, recessed displays, and individual wardrobes. Meanwhile, the accessory section, set beneath an unusually high ceiling, features muted green beams and custom aluminium shelves specifically designed to display bags.

Customer Experience

The store is divided into different zones, each aiming to provide a “layered spatial” experience for the customers. These areas are distinguished by unique colour schemes, patterns, and materials. Additionally, a tiled floor serves as a visual guide, assisting customers as they navigate the space.

The store also houses two lounges, one being a public area and the other a private lounge reserved for special appointments.

Art and Brand Identity

The brand’s cultural roots and identity are reflected in the artwork displayed throughout the boutique. Pieces by Australian artists Angilyiya Mitchell, Laith McGregor, and Louise Paramor are featured prominently.

Nicky Zimmermann, the brand’s creative director and co-founder, emphasized that the store is more than just a space to display clothing. She stated, “The store is a destination that fully embodies the spirit of Zimmermann, from the selection of textures and materials to the integration of art and furniture. Every element invites visitors to linger, explore, and truly inhabit the world of our brand.”

Questions & Answers

Where is Zimmermann’s first Thailand-based store located?
The store is located in IconSiam, Bangkok.

Who is responsible for the design of the store?
Studio McQualter designed the boutique.

What is unique about Zimmermann’s store design?
Zimmermann’s store is meticulously designed to offer a layered spatial experience, with each area defined by specific colour palettes, patterns, and materials. The store also integrates artwork and furniture, creating a space that invites exploration and evokes the spirit of the Zimmermann brand.

February 6, 2026
Acclaimed Brix Distillers Enters Voluntary Administration: Future of Australia’s First Craft Rum Distillery Uncertain

The boutique rum manufacturer, Brix Distillers, formerly known as Sydney Distilling Co, has opted for voluntary administration.

Appointing an Administrator

RSM Australia has been appointed to manage the administration for the pioneer craft rum distillery in the country. The firm is presently considering all possible alternatives, including liquidating the company’s assets through a deed of company arrangement.

Brix Distillers, which was established in 2017, ran a bar in Surry Hills.

Exploring Options for the Distillery

The primary responsibility of the administrators is to explore and identify all potential solutions to ensure the most favourable outcome not only for the creditors but also for the legacy of this Australian distillery brand. This includes exploring the sale of the business and its assets, according to Ben Carson, director at RSM.

The administrators are currently in discussion with several parties who have shown interest in the future of this premium craft rum brand and its business operations.

Seeking Potential Buyers

Carson noted that the company boasts one of the largest private stockpiles of Australian rum in the country. He encouraged those who are interested in the business to get in touch with their proposals.

Questions & Answers

What is the current status of Brix Distillers?

Brix Distillers has gone into voluntary administration, and RSM Australia has been appointed as the administrator.

What are the future plans for the business and its assets?

The administrators are currently exploring all potential solutions, which includes the possible sale of the business and its assets.

Who could potentially acquire the business?

The administrators are in talks with several parties who have expressed interest in the business. Interested parties are encouraged to get in touch with their proposals.

February 4, 2026
Red Bull Spices up Australian Market with Exclusive New Flavours: Lilac and Winter Editions

Red Bull, the globally recognized energy drink brand, is broadening its Australian beverage range with the introduction of two novel flavors. The new flavours, dubbed Lilac Edition and Winter Edition, are set to hit the market this month.

The Lilac Edition

The Lilac Edition is an exclusive offering earmarked for Woolworths stores and will come in a 473ml can size, to be available solely at Ampol outlets. The new variant presents a unique blend of grapefruit and blossom flavors. This flavor profile was initially presented to consumers at the prestigious Australian Open, where it was well received.

The Winter Edition

On the other hand, the Winter Edition is a limited-edition product that will be available in two sizes: 250ml and 473ml cans. The exclusive retailer for this novel flavor will be 7-Eleven stores. Red Bull has characterized this product as a passionfruit-flavored concoction, specifically crafted to complement the Australian winter season.

Each can of both the Lilac and Winter Editions will contain 80mg of caffeine, providing the energy boost that Red Bull is renowned for.

Questions & Answers

What new flavours is Red Bull introducing in Australia?
Red Bull is introducing two new flavours – Lilac Edition and Winter Edition – to its Australian market this month.

Where can these new flavors be purchased?
The Lilac Edition will be exclusively available at Woolworths and Ampol outlets, whereas the Winter Edition can be found at 7-Eleven stores.

What is the main flavor profile of these new products?
The Lilac Edition features a unique blend of grapefruit and blossom flavors. The Winter Edition, on the other hand, is infused with a passionfruit flavor.

February 4, 2026
International Students in Australia Grapple with Skyrocketing Living Costs and Tuition Fees

Many international students in Australia are facing considerable financial strain, as they attempt to balance their academic commitments with part-time work to afford their living expenses. A key concern among these students is the high cost of food and other essentials.

A Chinese student at the Australian National University, unwilling to be named, shared her experiences of eating instant noodles or fast food until she was able to find work. Although conscious of the need to study, she found herself working as many as 48 hours a fortnight, the maximum allowed under Australian student visas. This, however, led to immense stress and anxiety, affecting her sleep and overall wellbeing.

Struggling to Afford Basic Necessities

This student’s situation is far from unique. The 2024 State of Student Healthcare Report, issued by Allianz Partners Australia, indicated that nearly a third of international students regularly missed meals due to the high cost of groceries. Roughly one in four stated they could not afford fresh fruits and vegetables.

Housing security has also become a major issue. Sean Stimson, a senior solicitor at the Redfern Legal Centre’s International Student Legal Service, highlighted an increase in homelessness among international students over the past 18 months, largely due to significant rent hikes.

Erin Longbottom, nurse unit manager of the homeless health service at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney, referred to international students as the emerging “hidden face of homelessness.”

Overcoming Barriers in the Rental Market

The 2024 Student Accommodation Council report found that international students faced particular challenges in the private rental market. Without a rental history in Australia and often lacking employment or income statements when applying for leases, they are at a significant disadvantage.

While students are required to show access to A$30,000 (US$20,700) to obtain a visa, Stimson cautioned that these funds could be quickly depleted due to skyrocketing living costs.

Rising Tuition Fees

In addition to escalating expenses for housing and food, tuition costs have also surged. Immigration expert Dr. Abul Rizvi pointed out that fees for international students have grown significantly faster than inflation.

More than 583 courses charge international students over $250,000, with 445 of those offered by the country’s top research universities. In some instances, the total cost of a degree can exceed A$850,000.

Financial Stress Taking Its Toll

The Allianz report further revealed that over 61% of international students surveyed said daily expenses were substantially higher than anticipated. Only 18.2% felt financially secure, while 40.2% were experiencing financial stress or hardship. Worryingly, 28.1% considered leaving their studies due to these pressures.

Alan Morris, a professor focusing on urban and housing studies at the University of Technology Sydney, noted that many international students suffer enormous stress and anxiety as they try to juggle their academics and finances. This often results in academic performance suffering as students focus on making ends meet.

The Need for Innovative Solutions

Although Australia’s student visa work rules are generally quite generous, experts caution that simply increasing work hours may not alleviate the financial pressures faced by international students.

Rather, innovative solutions may be of value. Morris suggested Australia might benefit from adopting a Canadian housing model that pairs international students with older residents for reduced rent in exchange for assistance with household tasks.

In the meantime, many international students are finding their own ways to adapt to these financial challenges, developing practical skills such as cooking or driving to save money.

Despite the difficulties, many students still consider studying in Australia to be a valuable experience.

Questions & Answers

What challenges are international students in Australia facing?
They are dealing with rising living costs, high tuition fees, and restrictions on work hours, which are leading to financial stress and, in some cases, homelessness.

What issues are they encountering with housing and food?
Many international students are struggling to afford groceries and fresh food. Additionally, steep rent increases have led to issues with housing security, with homelessness on the rise among this group.

What solutions are being suggested to alleviate these pressures?
One suggestion is to adopt a Canadian housing model that pairs international students with older residents. The students would help with household tasks in exchange for reduced rent. This would help alleviate some financial stress and provide more secure housing.

January 29, 2026
E-commerce Boom in Australia Fuels Demand for Compliant Warehouse Racking Systems: Vinatech Rises to the Challenge

Australia’s logistics and warehousing sector is experiencing robust growth, increasing the demand for storage systems that adhere to rigorous technical and safety standards. This has led suppliers to modify their products to align with the country’s stringent regulatory requirements.

Booming Australian Warehousing Market

The warehousing and logistics market in Australia is a foundational aspect of the national supply chain, currently estimated to be worth around AUD15 billion (US$10.1 billion). The rapid proliferation of e-commerce has been fueling this sector, with predictions suggesting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 6-7% over the next five to ten years.

Entry of Vinatech Australia into the Market

In response to this burgeoning market, Vinatech Australia has entered the scene not simply as a traditional supplier, but as a strategic partner providing comprehensive warehouse racking solutions. The company specializes in supplying industrial warehouse racking and storage solutions fine-tuned for the Australian market, aiming to provide top-quality warehousing systems that align with international standards while catering to the unique operational needs of each client.

Vinatech Australia is supported by the Vinatech Group, a prominent Vietnamese manufacturer of industrial warehouse racking systems. Benefiting from extensive industry experience and state-of-the-art production infrastructure, the Vinatech Group has provided warehouse and storage solutions to numerous national and international clients, spanning logistics warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and large-scale distribution centers.

The operational model of the company allows customers to maximize project budgets without sacrificing product quality, ensuring alignment with AS4084 standards and compliance with relevant Australian rules. Vinatech also offers full certification and technical documentation upon request, facilitated by engineering teams knowledgeable in both Vietnamese manufacturing standards and Australian compliance requirements. This capability underpins the company’s prevailing message: “Made in Vietnam – Used in Australia.”

Comprehensive Industrial Solutions

Vinatech Australia also provides a comprehensive range of industrial solutions, including consultancy and warehouse system design from the initial site survey stage, customized industrial warehouse and pallet racking solutions to meet specific operational needs, full project management from conception to operational deployment, and the capacity to deliver large volumes with consistent and reliable timelines.

The company affirms its commitment to quality assurance and standards compliance as a vital element of its operations, addressing concerns regarding whether products sourced from Asia can meet the demanding standards of developed markets.

All Vinatech products are designed and manufactured in compliance with international technical and safety standards. This ensures every industrial warehouse and pallet racking system fulfills strict criteria on load capacity, structural stability, workplace safety, and Australian fire protection regulations.

Full Support from Planning to Operation

Vinatech Australia positions itself not just as a product supplier but as a comprehensive solutions partner, aiding customers from the early planning stages through to real-world operation. This includes advising clients on long-term development strategies and integrating their warehouse racking systems seamlessly with advanced automation technologies.

This strategy facilitates a phased approach to warehouse automation, allowing customers to commence with a fundamental solution such as pallet racking and progressively upgrade without the need to replace their entire warehouse racking infrastructure.

Vinatech’s goal is not to become the largest supplier, but to be the most trusted provider of industrial warehouse racking solutions in Australia. They aspire to be the first name businesses consider when planning or upgrading their warehouse operations, not just due to competitive pricing but also their professionalism, reliability, and commitment to long-term partnerships.

Questions & Answers

What is Vinatech Australia’s specialization?
Vinatech Australia specializes in providing industrial warehouse racking and storage solutions tailored for the Australian market.

How does Vinatech assure adherence to technical and safety standards?
Vinatech designs and manufactures all products in accordance with international technical and safety standards. They also provide complete certification and technical documentation upon request.

What differentiates Vinatech Australia’s approach to customer support?
Vinatech Australia positions itself not only as a product supplier but as a comprehensive solutions partner, supporting customers from early planning through to real-world operation.

January 22, 2026
Celsius Debuts Sparkling Raspberry Peach: An Exclusive 7-Eleven Flavor Revolutionizing the Australian Beverage Scene

Celsius, a renowned US energy drink brand, is introducing a flavour that will be exclusively available at 7-Eleven stores across Australia. This beverage, Sparkling Raspberry Peach, will be presented via the brand’s first-ever pop-up at the popular convenience store chain.

The Sparkling Raspberry Peach flavour offers a delightful mix of succulent peach and a touch of zesty raspberry. A representative for Celsius anticipates that this new beverage will be popular among Australian consumers and could potentially become the preferred non-alcoholic drink of choice. This prediction comes on the back of a recent study which reported that roughly 40% of drinkers are seeking to reduce their alcohol consumption, creating an opportunity for non-alcoholic beverages like Celsius to fill the gap.

The Sparkling Raspberry Peach flavour is currently available at 7-Eleven stores across the nation at a suggested retail price of $4.

To commemorate the launch, a pop-up event was organised featuring Australian DJ and producer, DJ Cyril. Entry tickets were priced at $7.11 each, with limited availability.

Adam Jacka, the General Manager of Marketing at 7-Eleven Australia, stated that their stores have consistently been a go-to spot for Australians to kickstart their day. Whether it’s a comforting oat latte, a chilly iced coffee, or a refreshing energy boost like Celsius, they cater to all preferences. Expressing his excitement about the partnership with Celsius, he added that the morning rave event was unconventional yet fitting. According to him, it encapsulates the spirit of 7-Eleven in its local, fun, and community-oriented approach.

Celsius has recently broadened its product offerings in Australia.

Questions & Answers

What is the new Celsius flavor that is launching in Australia?
The new flavor is Sparkling Raspberry Peach, a blend of sweet peach and tangy raspberry.

Where will this new Celsius flavour be available?
The Sparkling Raspberry Peach flavor will be exclusively available at 7-Eleven stores across Australia.

What was the special event organised to celebrate the launch of the new flavor?
A pop-up event featuring Australian DJ and producer, DJ Cyril, was organised to celebrate the launch.

January 20, 2026