Fast Food Chains in Oz Facing Higher Tax Payments

Fast food chains in Australia are facing the prospect of a fourfold increase in their tax payments with a Melbourne council currently considering the introduction of a special tax in order to control the spiraling rates of obesity and diabetes.

Darebin Council has revealed that it is considering increasing the tax rate for fast food chains by as much as 400 percent, a proposal that is being backed by health groups and dieticians. Darebin councilor Gaetano Greco said that should the proposal become a reality, the money generated will be used in promotion of various health programs.

"Councils have the responsibility of looking after the health and well-being of their community. Here we are looking at an extra tool that council can use to limit or control the spread of fast-food chain outlets", Greco added.

Source: Medindia