Almost 96% of Australian vapes are bought illegally as pharmacy model struggles, research suggests
August 14, 2026 by clearingtheair.eu
Almost 96% of Australian vapes are bought illegally as pharmacy model struggles, research suggests
When almost all vapes are bought outside the legal system, the problem is no longer consumer behaviour alone. It is a sign that Australia’s pharmacy model is failing to meet demand, leaving people to rely on informal markets with weaker safeguards and less oversight. A system designed to control vaping has instead pushed it beyond control. Harm reduction works better when legal access is realistic, regulated and easier than the illicit alternative.
11.00% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 2.4 million current smokers in Australia 12.90% of men are current smokers but only 9.30% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR
