Posts by theo@aacs.org.au

Ampol’s renewable diesel project, which will blend waste and animal fats with traditional diesel, is moving ahead with a $25 million investment from the Queensland government. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli said the funding was part of the state’s long-term plan to shore up fuel and avoid future supply chain shocks such as the one caused by the war in the Middle East. An aerial view of the Ampol oil refinery in Brisbane. Australia has just two oil refineries and gets most of its refined fuel from overseas. The Ampol oil refinery in Brisbane, where the company is developing renewable diesel. “These projects are important to ensure we are never again left at the mercy of foreign nations, at the end of a global supply chain,” Crisafulli said. Ampol’s project will co-process conventional diesel with waste fats and oils, like tallow and canola feedstock, to produce a renewable fuel that can…

A landmark 28-year analysis of Australian non-alcoholic drink sales has revealed major shifts in what Australians are choosing to drink, with water and low- and no-sugar carbonated drinks now dominating the beverage aisle. The research, conducted by FOODiQ Global and published in the peer-reviewed, scientific journal Nutrients, is the longest-running study of its kind globally. It examined non-alcoholic, water-based beverage sales in Australia, from 1997 to 2024, building on three previously published studies. The paper also provides additional sales data on kombucha, flavoured milk, juice and fruit drinks from 2015 to 2024. The independent research was commissioned by the Australian Beverages Council and launched at an industry briefing today. Key research findings included: • Australians are buying fewer sugar-sweetened carbonated drinks and more low- and no-sugar options. In 1997, sugar-sweetened water-based beverages accounted for 70% of the category. By 2024, this figure fell to 35%. In contrast, low- and no-sugar…

The second official operation of the Australian Border Force (ABF)-led Illicit Tobacco National Disruption Group (NDG) across New South Wales (NSW) and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) has resulted in: Seizure of approximately 2,969,000 illicit cigarettes, over 184kg loose-leaf tobacco and over 98,500 vaping devices. Seizure of over AUD $27,000 cash. Issued short term closure orders at 23 non-compliant retailers and the re-closure under an existing order of one retail store. Identified 15 persons of interest. Total of approximately AUD $4.23 million in estimated duty evaded. NDG Operation TEMPEST26 is a multi-phased joint agency operation to detect, deter and disrupt illicit tobacco networks that threaten Australia’s borders and the community. This result follows on from the first NDG Operation across QLD and SA in February. Partners in the NDG worked collaboratively between state, territory and commonwealth agencies, ensuring that activity conducted within jurisdictions is used to inform national activities to…

Coca-Cola Australia has signed a three-year partnership with the National Rugby League, becoming an official partner of both the NRL Telstra Premiership and NRLW competitions. The deal sparks a major investment in Australian sport for the brand, positioning Coca-Cola across broadcast, retail and live experiences throughout the rugby league season. As the official non-alcoholic ready-to-drink partner, Coca-Cola’s presence will extend across key moments, including State of Origin, the Finals Series and national team sponsorships across both the NRL and NRLW. The partnership is designed to connect the brand with fans across multiple touchpoints, from in-stadium experiences to at-home viewing. To coincide with the launch, Coca-Cola has introduced a new 500ml NRL Superfan Edition can, alongside a series of promotions offering fans the chance to win experiences, including State of Origin Game 3 at Suncorp Stadium and NRL Grand Final tickets. The limited-edition cans are available across major convenience and fuel retailers nationwide. Martyn Ferguson, marketing…