Tony Smith named ABAC chair as Harry Jenkins retires

Harry Jenkins has retired as the Alcohol Beverages Advertising Code (ABAC) independent chair after a five-year tenure and is succeeded by Tony Smith.

Both Jenkins and Smith are former speakers of the House of Representatives. The ABAC Scheme has a history of appointing former Parliamentary presiding officers; Jenkins succeeded Alan Ferguson, formerly president of the Senate.

Smith brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served in federal parliament for over 20 years, including as speaker for over six years, and serving on numerous parliamentary committees, many as chair.

Smith said he is looking forward to joining an organisation that is effective, responsive and has proven itself to align with community standards.

"ABAC has shown it is proactive and dynamic in the way it has kept pace with the ever-emerging issues, demonstrating its willingness to be ahead of the curve," he said.

"It is important that the Code remain global best practice, responding to changes in the environment in which it operates.”

Jenkins said he is pleased to have been part of ABAC for the past five years.

"I have been impressed by the serious intent of everyone involved in the ABAC system, and the efficacy and responsiveness of the Scheme," said Jenkins.

"The Scheme has ably responded to a variety of challenges and I am pleased to see continuing reductions in risky alcohol consumption by adults and reductions in alcohol consumption by minors. Minimising exposure of minors to alcohol advertising and ensuring the content of this advertising does not appeal to them is and will continue to be the most important objective of the Code.

"I would like to thank those who are regulated by the system for their ongoing co-operation with the complaints system and their proactive efforts to comply with the Code standards, demonstrated by a strong use of the pre-vetting service."

ABAC’s CEO, Jayne Taylor, said Jenkins has provided strong independent leadership during a period of significant change in the alcohol and marketing industries and calmly guided ABAC through the COVID-19 pandemic.

"ABAC is grateful for Harry’s leadership and thoughtful advice in helping the organisation to evolve over the last five years to keep pace with community expectations and a rapidly changing media and industry landscape," she said.

"We wish him all the best for his well-earned retirement from the position.”