Australia’s war on nicotine is failing. A smarter strategy is needed
July 30, 2025 by crikey.com.au
Australia’s war on nicotine is failing. A smarter strategy is needed
Alarming Roy Morgan data reveals rising smoking and vaping rates in Australia post-2024 vaping crackdown. Excessive regulations and high taxes on tobacco have backfired, fueling a dangerous black market. Illicit tobacco and vapes are widely available, leading to criminal activities and endangering communities. Australia's punitive measures have failed to curb illegal trade, contrasting with successful harm reduction policies in countries like New Zealand. Urgent reform is needed to establish a regulated market for safer nicotine products, reduce tobacco excise, and involve consumers in policymaking. Embracing harm reduction can accelerate the decline in smoking rates and combat the growing black market, safeguarding public health and reducing crime.
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
