Australia Implements Ban on Vaping Imports
Health Minister Mark Butler wants Australians to commit to quitting vaping in the New Year.
Australia has made it illegal to import disposable vapes under the Albanese government’s new vaping reforms.
The government is urging Australians to stop vaping as the law is put into effect at the start of the year.
An exemption exists for international travelers entering Australia with a small amount of vapes for medical purposes.
Vapes that were imported into Australia before January 1 can still be legally supplied until they are used up.
However, under a new program, doctors and nurses can prescribe therapeutic vaping products if it is deemed appropriate.
Mark Butler, the Health Minister, is calling for people to stop vaping, emphasizing that the import ban is just the “first chapter” of vaping reform.
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“Vaping is creating a whole new generation of nicotine dependency in our community, especially amongst young Australians,” he said.
“If you vape, this New Year make it your resolution to quit.”
He stated that the Albanese government is taking “world-leading action” to eliminate vaping and prevent a new generation of children from getting hooked on nicotine.
“This is just the first chapter of the government’s vaping reform, the supply of vapes coming into Australia will gradually dry up over the course of 2024, for this reason, we strongly encourage all recreational vapers to begin their journey of cessation,” he said.
The government referenced data from the Australian Secondary Schools Alcohol and Drug survey showing that vaping is prevalent among young Australians, further supporting the need for the ban.
In addition, the government reported that it will spend $29.5 million (US$20.1 million) over the next four years on health services and programs to assist people in quitting smoking and vaping.
Concerns About Vaping Ban
Despite the vaping ban, concerns have been raised in Australia about the potential for a black market.
Retired doctor and founding chairman of the Australian Tobacco Harm Reduction Association Dr. Colin Mendelsohn told 3AW radio, “Unfortunately in Australia, we’ve just got the regulations wrong.”
Meanwhile, Libertarian MLC David Limbrick raised concerns the government is putting the “interests of big pharma and doctors above Australian consumers.”
“The government is dreaming if they think they will magically destroy this market,” he said.
