Australia Cracks Down Hard on Vaping in 2024

Why is Australia falling behind in the fight against smoking?

10 January 2024 | Hannah Rubery

The world of vaping is always changing, with laws, products, and attitudes constantly evolving. While many countries are embracing vaping as a safer alternative to smoking, Australia seems to be going in the opposite direction. The regulations there are becoming stricter, making it harder for smokers to find healthier options.

This tough approach not only hurts the vaping industry, but more importantly, it limits smokers' access to potentially life-saving alternatives. Is this the right way to go? Let's take a closer look at Australia's vaping laws and how they compare to those in neighbouring New Zealand.

Australia’s vaping regulation changes coming into effect

Big changes are happening in the vaping world down under. Australia has recently implemented some strict laws that are shaking things up for both the industry and individuals.

First off, there's now a complete ban on importing disposable vapes. This means smokers looking to try out different options are left with limited choices. It's also getting tough on refillable vapes - starting in March, importation will only be allowed for those with the right licenses and permits. And soon, there will be a ban on selling vaping products altogether, affecting everyone looking for safer alternatives.

To make matters worse, doctors are now the gatekeepers for accessing these devices, but they're showing some reluctance to prescribe them. It's creating more barriers for smokers trying to make the switch.

These changes aren't just making it harder for smokers to find better alternatives, but they're also putting a damper on the growth of the vaping industry. It's a pretty different story just across the ditch in New Zealand!

How do other similar countries change their regulations?

A close neighbour to Australia has gone for a different approach in handling their vaping regulatory changes. New Zealand for a time was largely unregulated but over the last few years, changes have been made to ensure good processes are put in place without hindering the benefits of vaping. Much different to Australia’s approach, these recent updates have included:

- Keeping distance from schools: New vape stores in New Zealand are now required to be at least 300 meters away from schools. This protects young people from being exposed to vaping while still ensuring that adults who need these products can access them.

- Generic flavour descriptions: To make vaping less appealing to young people, New Zealand now mandates that vape products can only have generic flavour descriptions.

- Maximum strength limit: Disposable vapes in New Zealand can now have a maximum nicotine strength of 20mg. This provides enough nicotine for smokers who are trying to quit while making sure that there isn't excessive consumption.

- Enhanced safety features: All vape products in New Zealand must now have removable batteries and child-safety mechanisms. These changes prioritize safety, protecting children from accidental exposure and making it easier to maintain the devices.

These regulations show that New Zealand cares about public health and safety, while still recognizing the potential of vaping as a safer alternative for smokers.

The proof is in the smoking cessation results

The different approaches New Zealand and Australia have taken show clearly different results. In New Zealand, they've embraced vaping as a way to help people quit smoking, and it's had a big impact. They've seen a whopping 45% reduction in smokers over the past five years. That's pretty impressive!

But in Australia, it's a different story. They've taken a more restrictive stance on vaping, and it doesn't seem to be working as well. Over the same five-year period, they've only seen a 5% decline in smokers. It seems like their strict laws might be getting in the way of people finding healthier alternatives to tobacco.

This comparison really highlights the difference in policy outcomes. New Zealand's balanced approach has led to a significant decrease in smoking rates, potentially saving lives and reducing healthcare costs. On the other hand, Australia's restrictive laws haven't had the same positive impact on smoking cessation. It's clear that Australia could benefit from rethinking their vaping laws and following New Zealand's lead for better public health.

Australia's vaping future needs more balance

The future of vaping in Australia is at a crucial turning point. The current restrictive laws are causing difficulties for both consumers and the industry, potentially preventing smokers from switching to healthier options. Although the intention behind these measures is to protect public health, it's important to acknowledge the difference in smoking cessation rates compared to New Zealand's more balanced approach.

It's time for Australia's vaping laws to be re-evaluated with careful consideration. By following New Zealand's example and implementing fair regulations, smokers could have better access to less harmful alternatives while still ensuring public health is protected. This could have a significant impact on reducing smoking rates and ultimately improve public health for everyone.