Therapeutic Goods Advertising Consultative Committee, 6 March 2025

The Therapeutic Goods Advertising Consultative Committee (TGACC) met in Sydney on Thursday 6 March 2025. The Committee comprises stakeholder organisations with an interest in the advertising of therapeutic goods in Australia, including healthcare professional bodies, consumer groups, therapeutic goods industry peak bodies and media industry peak bodies.

Members discussed concerns about foods and supplements claiming to complement GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) use, such as meal replacements or supplements. Members also discussed the impact of economic factors on vitamin supplement consumption. Concerns were raised about the advertising of these products, considering health implications for consumers who substitute fresh fruits and vegetables with supplements.

Members noted instances of unregistered goods being advertised on overseas websites and social media, which are visible to Australian consumers and do not adhere to Australian advertising rules. The TGA reiterated its compliance and enforcement tools and productive working relationships with various digital platforms, and methods of identifying and addressing non-compliance.

The TGA presented a detailed overview of the listed medicines regulatory framework and associated advertising requirements, with members requesting clarity on the risk assignment process for these assessments.

The TGA introduced upcoming changes and new features to guidance documents to improve clarity, enhance usability and help stakeholders comply more effectively with regulatory requirements. The presentation also showcased key updates to advertising webpages, enhancing readability, accessibility and navigation to align with the Commonwealth’s digital service standard.

The TGA provided an update on the outcomes of its Artificial Intelligence (AI) priority legislation review, detailing the multi-faceted approach to improve transparency, education and communication about these products. Members raised concerns about the risks and potential harm associated with AI use, and the TGA agreed to keep the committee informed as this work progresses.

The TGA outlined the review process for determining the 2025-27 compliance priorities, aiming to ensure alignment with current regulatory needs and stakeholder expectations. Consultation with TGACC members would occur out-of-session.

The TGA discussed its approach to managing advertising non-compliance for lower-risk therapeutic goods, including the formation of a new Targeted Compliance Team. Members sought clarification on the role and location of the new team and enquired about how industry engagement would be measured. Members also raised concerns about the lack of transparency regarding actions taken by the TGA on lower-risk non-compliance. TGA advised that they will determine appropriate information that can be shared on its website, including through media releases, to ensure broad awareness and deterrence. They will also report back to the Committee on targeted areas and outcomes at a later meeting.

The Committee noted the Therapeutic Goods Advertising Compliance and Education Report, which included updates on enforcement actions related to compliance priorities and educational activities.

The Chair briefly outlined the potential impacts of caretaker conventions on the committee’s activities, noting that an updated guideline is expected to be released when the Federal election is called.