The Australian government is taking strong action to ban e-cigarettes, especially among teenagers, as part of significant smoking reforms. Health Minister Mark Butler has expressed concern about the increasing prevalence of vaping in schools, recognizing its therapeutic uses but emphasizing the negative impact on young people. Research has established a strong link between vaping and nicotine addiction in young people, leading to psychological issues and physical symptoms. The new regulations will prohibit non-prescription vapes from being imported and require vape products to have pharmaceutical-like packaging, focusing on their role as an aid for quitting smoking. Colorful and enticing packaging will be restricted, and disposable vapes will be banned to prevent them from being disguised as harmless objects. Furthermore, tobacco taxes will be raised by 5% per year for the next three years, starting in September.

While the ban on disposable vapes is a positive step, efforts must continue to ensure legal access to approved vaping products for smokers who want to quit. The government plans to invest millions of dollars in smoking cessation programs to support individuals in their quit-smoking journey without relying on e-cigarettes. In contrast, the UK promotes vaping as a tool to help long-term smokers quit. They will provide vape starter kits and behavioral support to encourage approximately one million smokers.