Read articles from Oceania

January 29, 2026 by filtermag.org

Youth vaping is used to oppose adult access to nicotine vapes, though the issue is often exaggerated. New Zealand has successfully reduced youth vaping rates by implementing strict regulations without hindering harm reduction. The country's approach includes penalties for selling to minors and limiting marketing tactics. New Zealand's success in reducing smoking and youth vaping challenges misinformation and fear-mongering. In contrast, Australia's stringent vape restrictions have not yielded the same public health benefits. While New Zealand has made significant progress, challenges remain, especially among indigenous Māori youth.

January 19, 2026 by scoop.co.nz

The Coalition of Asia Pacific Tobacco Harm Reduction Advocates (CAPHRA) delivered a clear message to the Australian Senate: Australia’s illegal tobacco crisis is the result of failed policy, not weak enforcement, and no amount of additional resources will fix a problem created by prohibition. In its submission to the Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee’s inquiry into the illegal tobacco market, CAPHRA warned that organised crime has taken control of a black market worth around A$4 billion. This market has been driven by policies that removed legal access to safer nicotine products while consumer demand remained unchanged.

January 19, 2026 by health.gov.au

The ‘Give Up For Good’ campaign is helping Australians live healthier, nicotine-free lives by empowering them to quit smoking and vaping for good - or to never start. Designed to help protect people of all ages from the harms of tobacco and nicotine addiction, this new phase of the campaign responds to recent research showing most Australians who smoke or vape are open to, or trying to quit, and are seeking information to help them take the next step.

January 19, 2026 by health.gov.au

The ‘Give Up For Good’ campaign is helping Australians live healthier, nicotine-free lives by empowering them to quit smoking and vaping for good - or to never start. Designed to help protect people of all ages from the harms of tobacco and nicotine addiction, this new phase of the campaign responds to recent research showing most Australians who smoke or vape are open to, or trying to quit, and are seeking information to help them take the next step.

January 19, 2026 by health.gov.au

The ‘Give Up For Good’ campaign is helping Australians live healthier, nicotine-free lives by empowering them to quit smoking and vaping for good - or to never start. Designed to help protect people of all ages from the harms of tobacco and nicotine addiction, this new phase of the campaign responds to recent research showing most Australians who smoke or vape are open to, or trying to quit, and are seeking information to help them take the next step.

January 19, 2026 by health.gov.au

The ‘Give Up For Good’ campaign is helping Australians live healthier, nicotine-free lives by empowering them to quit smoking and vaping for good - or to never start. Designed to help protect people of all ages from the harms of tobacco and nicotine addiction, this new phase of the campaign responds to recent research showing most Australians who smoke or vape are open to, or trying to quit, and are seeking information to help them take the next step.

January 13, 2026 by abc.net.au

A leading public health expert expressed puzzlement over why Western Australia has fallen behind other states in modernizing its illicit tobacco laws. The expert highlighted the clear rise of illegal tobacco outlets in Perth and regional areas, which has increased pressure on authorities to respond. Research has shown that this trade is closely connected to organized crime networks across the country. While other states have implemented stronger, updated legislation to tackle the issue, in WA the responsibility falls on the Health Department to inspect and sanction shops under the Tobacco Control Act 2006. This approach has left the state lagging in enforcement compared with the rest of the nation.

December 19, 2025 by afr.com

Illegal tobacco has significantly reduced Australia's tobacco excise tax revenue, with projections showing a $22.3 billion decline by 2028. A former Australian Border Force officer warns that tax collection from tobacco could be minimal due to the impact of illegal tobacco trade.

December 12, 2025 by 1news.co.nz

Over half of cigarettes bought in Australia are from the black market, costing taxpayers up to AU$11.8 billion yearly and impacting public health and safety. The illicit tobacco trade undermines efforts to reduce smoking rates, with the black market share estimated at 55-60%. The high excise rates led to this surge, with legitimate packs now over AU$40 while illicit packs go for less than AU$15. Lowering excise rates could increase revenue but risks health consequences, emphasizing the need for stronger enforcement. Shuhyta advocates against excise reduction, urging smokers to choose legal options to combat the illicit market and its associated risks.

December 10, 2025 by theconversation.com

The New Zealand government failed to achieve the smokefree goal, with 6.8% of adults smoking daily. Tobacco remains available with disparities, especially among Māori smokers at 15%. Vaping is popular among youth, with 13.6% of 15-17-year-olds vaping daily, raising addiction concerns. Oral nicotine pouches are proposed, but health officials doubt their effectiveness as cessation aids and warn of health risks, addiction, and youth appeal. Introduction of such products may worsen nicotine addiction issues, contradicting public health goals. Evidence is lacking on their benefits, safety, and impact on youth. The government’s focus should be on reducing smoking and addiction, not introducing potentially harmful alternatives.