The issue I am campaigning on today is the sale of energy drinks to under 16s.

This should be changed because high levels of caffeine and sugar pose a serious threat to young people and affects sleep, mental health and anxiety. It needs to be changed because high sugar and caffeine levels cause serious harm to young people.

The Amped Up study, led by public health researcher Dr Gina Trapp, surveyed 3,688 Western Australian high school students about their energy drink use. 24.6 per cent had experienced heart palpitations, 24.5 per cent had had trouble sleeping or insomnia, 24.3 per cent had headaches, and 24 per cent had upset stomachs.

My proposal for change is targeted towards: 

Banning the sale of energy drinks containing over 150 milligrams of caffeine to children under 16, stricter labelling, stating the maximum recommended daily amount is 500ml per day, however energy drinks are available in sizes larger than this. Educating young people under 16 about the severe health risks involved in consuming too much energy drinks.

A nationwide ban on energy drinks for kids under the age of 16 will ensure better health for young people, increased focus at school, and lower healthcare costs, while Teenagers will change what they buy at supermarkets. Instead of energy drinks, they will buy other options like soft drinks, iced teas, coconut water, flavoured milk and other products.