Read articles from Australia

June 24, 2024 by theconversation.com

The Australian Senate is passing a bill ending all vape sales, with non-nicotine vapes only sold in pharmacies starting July 1. Amended by the Greens, vapes will require a prescription initially, then become prescription-free for therapeutic use by October 1, 2024. Vaping products must meet quality standards, be sold behind pharmacy counters, and only in mint/menthol and tobacco flavors. Retailers selling illegal vapes face fines and jail time. The bill aims to address the rise in teen vaping. Proponents argue against treating vapes like tobacco. Effective monitoring and enforcement are crucial to protect young people from nicotine addiction.

June 24, 2024 by vapingpost.com

The Global Forum on Nicotine discussed how Western countries like the US, UK, and Australia are regressing in tobacco harm reduction (THR) efforts. Australia's strict vaping laws have failed, leading to a black market controlled by organized crime. Misinformation spreads, ignoring successful approaches from countries like New Zealand. High rates of illegal vaping and violence result from prohibitive measures, with little impact on youth vaping. The Australian government misrepresents data, evading the real issues. Experts like Dr. Mendelsohn face backlash, as policies fuel organized crime. Current laws fail to tackle teen vaping, worsening public safety. Enforcement of regulations remains minimal, emphasizing the need to reconsider THR strategies.

June 19, 2024 by reason.com

Australia's tobacco turf war stems from high cigarette taxes and strict vaping restrictions, driving a thriving illicit market. Government crackdowns have led to escalating violence and a surge in organized crime related to nicotine. With draconian measures planned, Australia risks worsening its drug war. By stifling safer nicotine alternatives, the country faces a rise in smoking and vaping among youth. The contrast with more liberal approaches, like in New Zealand, highlights the impact of policy choices on public health. Australia's experience serves as a cautionary tale, showing the consequences of extreme anti-nicotine regulations.

June 18, 2024 by theage.com.au

Smoking and vaping rates have risen during the pandemic due to illegal cigarettes and high taxes, as seen in Victoria. Legalizing vapes may reduce the illegal market, but not illegal cigarette sales. Data from Cancer Council Victoria highlights a surge in smoking, vaping, and dual use. The black market thrives on price gaps caused by tobacco excise taxes.

June 17, 2024 by vapingpost.com

Dr. Colin Mendelsohn, a renowned expert in smoking cessation, received the prestigious Michael Russell Award in 2024 for his groundbreaking contributions to safer nicotine products and tobacco harm reduction. Despite facing opposition in Australia, Mendelsohn advocates for vaping as a tool for quitting smoking. His efforts include engaging with policymakers, providing scientific evidence, and producing educational materials. Mendelsohn's dedication to harm reduction and advocacy for vaping have led to international recognition, despite facing criticism at home. His book, "Stop Smoking, Start Vaping," is available for free to promote vaping's health benefits. Mendelsohn's unwavering commitment to harm reduction has earned him the well-deserved Michael Russell Award.

June 04, 2024 by smh.com.au

The number of people using vapes in NSW increased last year, but survey data suggests more than half are considering quitting in the next six months. According to figures from the latest NSW Population Health Survey, published by the Ministry of Health on Friday, almost 19 per cent of people aged 16 to 24 identify as a current user of vapes, also known as e-cigarettes. Self-reported vaping rates increased in every age group in the 2022-23 survey. However, among under-35s – who have the highest vaping rates – the increase in uptake was smaller than the previous year.

June 03, 2024 by gfn.tv

Australia intensified its war on vaping with new, punitive regulations that will criminalize nicotine vaping products to an extent unseen in the Western world. The government explicitly states that its goal is to 'reverse the increasing uptake of recreational nicotine.

May 28, 2024 by colinmendelsohn.com.au

Youth vaping is under scrutiny by Australian health organizations, highlighting the importance of balancing risks and benefits. While concerns exist, severe harmful effects are rare. Nicotine dependence is low among non-smokers, and vaping is considered less harmful than smoking. Studies show vaping doesn't impair brain function as feared and may divert young people from smoking. To address youth vaping, enforcing strict regulations and promoting education are key. Vaping trends are declining in various countries, and studies suggest vaping isn't a gateway to smoking. Encouraging responsible usage and restricting access to minors are critical in managing youth vaping.

May 27, 2024 by thenightly.com.au

Kellyanne Conway's use of "alternative facts" echoes Australia's current vaping crisis. Despite evidence showing failure in the prescription model and ban, young Australians increasingly access vapes illegally. Organized crime profits from a $4 billion industry, impacting 1.5 million vapers. Proposed excise taxes could raise $9-12 billion, potentially curbing addiction and black market sales. Political leaders, like Nationals Leader David Littleproud, are reconsidering policies to address the epidemic. Public opinion favors taxing and regulating vapes like tobacco. Lobbyists suggest redirecting tax revenue to education and law enforcement. The Greens and Coalition are reviewing their stances, aiming to protect children from addiction amid widespread illegal vape availability.

May 27, 2024 by miragenews.com

A new e-learning resource in Tasmanian schools aims to educate teachers on preventing e-cigarette use. The Vaping, Youth, and Health package offers modules for school staff, interactive classroom tools aligned with the Australian curriculum, and resources for parents. With over 500 deaths annually due to smoking, the Tasmanian Government focuses on reducing smoking rates, especially among youth. Misconceptions about e-cigarettes among young people are addressed, emphasizing their dangers such as corrosive chemicals and nicotine addiction. The initiative supports a healthy future by discouraging early vaping uptake.