Read articles from Oceania

April 01, 2025 by dailymail.co.uk

Australia implements starker warnings on cigarette packets and individual cigarettes, following Canada's example, aiming to reduce smoking rates. Changes include banning menthol cigarettes, introducing graphic health warnings, and health promotion inserts to raise awareness about lesser-known smoking-related health risks. The initiative, also aimed at curbing the black market, includes messages like 'CAUSES 16 CANCERS' on individual cigarettes. The government's budget reflects a projected decrease in tobacco excise revenues due to anticipated shifts towards illicit tobacco or vapes, prompting increased funding for enforcement.

April 01, 2025 by rnz.co.nz

Tobacco excise tax in New Zealand has increased over the years, leading to a rise in prices and a decline in legal consumption. Revenue dropped while seizures of illegal cigarettes at the border increased. High prices may be driving consumers to the black market. Vaping is seen as a more accessible and affordable alternative. Tax has been effective in reducing smoking rates but is becoming burdensome for low-income households. Strategies to make safer alternatives like vaping more affordable are crucial. The impact of high taxes on the smoking population and illicit tobacco consumption needs continued evaluation to balance public health goals with social consequences.

March 25, 2025 by 9news.com.au

Although illegal in Australia, nicotine pouches remain popular among young Australians, leading to recent seizures by the Therapeutic Goods Administration. Marketed as a cleaner alternative to smoking, these pouches contain nicotine and flavors but lack tobacco. Safety concerns arise from inconsistent nicotine levels and unregulated ingredients. Side effects include addiction, mouth issues, and potential harm to brain development. While banned for sale, some individuals import them with a prescription. Nicotine pouches' efficacy as a smoking cessation aid is inconclusive compared to other nicotine replacement therapies. More research is needed to assess their safety and effectiveness.

March 21, 2025 by theconversation.com

E-cigarette companies like British American Tobacco lobbied to loosen vape regulations in NZ and Australia. They argue vaping is replacing smoking based on a 2020 study. However, a new study found vaping slowed the decline in youth smoking rates since 2010. The 2020 study didn't consider this and influenced policy decisions. Research suggests vaping may lead to smoking uptake in NZ adolescents, emphasizing the need for comprehensive policies addressing both vaping and smoking. Policymakers globally should be cautious of unintended consequences on youth when crafting regulations around vaping products for adults.

March 17, 2025 by pulsetasmania.com.au

Tasmania is the first Australian state to ban over-the-counter vape sales, requiring prescriptions for those over 18 under the new Public Health Amendment (Vaping) Bill 2024. This move surpasses federal regulations and aims to protect youth from the dangers of vaping. The decision has been praised by officials and health organizations for its focus on public health and reducing smoking-related harm. Cancer Council Tasmania emphasizes the importance of preventing smoking and vaping uptake to combat health risks effectively.

March 05, 2025 by gfn.tv

New Zealand's acceptance of safer nicotine products has spearheaded an unprecedented drop in smoking rates in its indigenous communities - can its neighbour Australia leaern a thing or two from New Zealand's success? In this latest episode of GFN News Will Godfrey joins us to highlight a recent paper by Colin Mendelsohn exploring New Zealand's plummeting smoking rates.

February 17, 2025 by news.com.au

New research suggests that vaping may be even more harmful than previously thought. A Reddit user, a former vaping addict, described struggling to remove a greasy residue from their car windows after years of heavy use of disposable vapes. Despite regular cleaning, the buildup persisted, causing strong glare on the windshield and forcing them to keep the air conditioning on at all times. Lead researcher and distinguished professor Brian Oliver believes the Australian public deserves to be better informed about the dangers of third-hand vaping, especially young people who “don’t often think of these risks”

February 17, 2025 by theconversation.com

The smokefree generation law in New Zealand aimed to end tobacco sales to those born after a specific date to phase out smoking. The law had strong support but was repealed by the government. Different approaches, including a nicotine-free generation policy, are being considered globally, while NZ lags. Young vapers see benefits in a nicotine-free policy, as they struggle to quit due to easy access and marketing. They prefer regulation to protect them from vaping. Some worry about enforcement challenges. Discussions are needed on adopting progressive smokefree policies recognizing the impact of the changing nicotine market on youth wellbeing. Reducing vaping's availability and appeal is crucial for future policy.

February 14, 2025 by medicalxpress.com

Two professionals' study in the Addiction journal compared smoking rates in Australia and New Zealand, finding faster declines in New Zealand. They attribute this to New Zealand's less restrictive vaping regulations. The research suggests that increasing access to nicotine vaping products could benefit public health and reduce smoking rates, especially among disadvantaged populations. The restrictive vaping model in Australia might lead to a thriving black market. The study recommends less strict regulations, such as licensed retail sales, age verification, and limited advertising, to balance reducing youth access and encouraging smokers to switch to vaping. Implementing a more permissive policy similar to New Zealand could help improve public health outcomes and curb the illicit vape market.

February 12, 2025 by gfn.tv

Why has New Zealand's smoking rate dropped so far below Australia's in recent years, and what can we subsequently learn from New Zealand's approach to safer nicotine products? In this episode of GFN News THR advocate Colin Mendelsohn highlights the striking difference in approach to vaping in New Zealand and Australia. Enjoy!