The Therapeutic Goods Advertising Consultative Committee (TGACC) met on 6 December 2021. The TGACC comprises a range of stakeholder organisations with an interest in the advertising of therapeutic goods in Australia, including from the business, media, consumer and health professional sectors.
The TGACC noted that a new Therapeutic Goods Advertising Code 2021 (the Code) had been made, following intensive targeted and public consultation. Members were provided with the results of consumer research conducted on mandatory statements in advertising of therapeutic goods, and the proposed communications plan.
The TGACC acknowledged the improved readability of the Code and the simplified mandatory statement requirements. Members requested that the TGA improve the accessibility and quality of supporting guidance for users of the Code.
The TGACC discussed the potential risk of misleading advertising regarding prenatal and pregnancy related therapeutic goods. Members agreed there are risks associated with the advertising of these products particularly to consumers who might be feeling vulnerable. It was agreed that prenatal and pregnancy products be included in future advertising compliance priority setting discussions.
The TGA provided a demonstration of its updated online advertising forms and associated internal case management system. The online forms facilitate submission of advertising enquiries, reports of non-compliant advertising of therapeutic goods, and applications to use a restricted representation in advertising. The TGACC also noted that data cleansing, following implementation of the new system, was ongoing resulting in some delays to the inclusion of information in the external compliance and investigations outcomes database.
The TGA provided an overview of its advertising compliance education activities, including the continued support of the roll-out of COVID-19 vaccinations and education materials regarding nicotine vaping products and medicinal cannabis.
The TGACC noted the TGA's request for ongoing feedback on education needs, and the intent to simplify the 'Advertising Hub' on the TGA website. The Education Strategy and Plan outline the education priorities and strategies that will be used to assist with compliance outcomes that benefit consumers.
The TGACC noted the standing advertising compliance report.
The next meeting of the TGACC is scheduled to take place in March 2022.