What Smokers Need to Know About New Vaping Laws in Australia

The implementation of the new vaping laws in Australia is the resolution to the surge in vaping among young people across the country and its territories. According to recent statistics, the percentage of Australian teens who vape has gone up from 4.4% in 2016 to an alarming 22% in 2023. 

In response by the government, new legislation has been implemented to reduce nicotine addiction and protect public health, especially for young people. Starting July 1, 2024, these vape rules make it harder to get vaping products, aiming to tackle health concerns about vaping, particularly among teens.

If you’re a vaper or are thinking of using vapes to quit smoking, you will need to understand these new vaping laws. They will impact where and how you can purchase vaping products, what you need to know if you’re traveling with them, and more.

Key Changes of Vaping Laws in Australia in 2024

As Australia moves forward with its updated vaping laws, smokers must know how these vaping law changes can affect them. Here’s a quick look of what are the vaping laws in Australia and what you need to know to navigate these new policies effectively:

Pharmacy- Only Therapeutic Goods

From the first of July this year, nicotine vapes in Australia became classified as therapeutic goods. This means they will only be available at pharmacies, aligning with new vape laws designed to regulate access. This new vaping law was made to help people use vaping to quit smoking or manage nicotine cravings.

Under these vape laws, it is now illegal for vape shops, convenience stores, tobacconists, and other retailers to sell any vape or vape products. Note that this includes all vaping products, not just those containing nicotine.

Prescription Requirements

From July until September 30, 2024, anyone purchasing nicotine vapes will be required to present a prescription from a health provider. Just like with the limitation of where to buy vapes,  this vape regulation ensures that those who are vaping or are interested in trying it receive proper guidance from a qualified physician.

The changes in Australia's vaping laws maintain strict age restrictions. Minors (individuals under 18) will need a prescription to access any vaping products. This ensures teenagers get proper medical advice and support for their nicotine use, helping protect minors from nicotine and vape misuse.

From October 1 onwards, adults (consumers over 18 years old) will be able to buy certain nicotine vapes from pharmacies without a prescription. The pharmacists will be in charge of informing the buyer regarding proper use and safety. Under the new vape rules, adults needing vapes with more than 20mg/ml nicotine must still have a prescription from a doctor or nurse.

Vape Packaging and Limited Flavours

The new vape laws also crack down on how vapes are packaged and the flavours available. All vape products must now come in plain packaging with bold health warnings. 

As for flavours, only tobacco and menthol will be allowed—no more fruity or sweet options. This move is meant to make vapes less appealing to younger users and keep vaping focused on helping smokers quit rather than drawing in new users.

Enforcement and Penalties

If you want to use vapes or any vaping products you should first know what are the laws around vaping in Australia. To ensure that vapers and sellers comply with the new vaping laws and regulations, the Australian government has put strict enforcement mechanisms in place. 

Violations of these new laws can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment of up to seven years and fines of $22 million for illegal supply and possession of vaping products. These stringent penalties reflect the country’s serious commitment to mitigating the public health risks associated with vaping, particularly young people.

What is the New Vaping Law and What Does this Mean for Vapers?

As mentioned, if you are an adult using vaping as a means to control your smoking or manage nicotine dependence, you will only need a valid prescription to access nicotine vapes from pharmacies until the end of September of this year.

It’s a different matter for recreational vapers, though. Since January 1, 2024, the Australian government has banned the importation of disposable vapes. This decision is primarily driven by the rising vaping rates and nicotine addiction among youth. 

Many disposable vapes, especially those with appealing flavours like fruity blends or bubble gum have been targeted specifically at teenagers, increasing the risk of young people developing nicotine addiction and eventually taking up tobacco smoking.

It’s important to note that owning a nicotine vape without a prescription is now technically illegal. However, the government allows personal use, letting people keep up to nine vapes without charges. There’s also an eight-month grace period to give time to follow the new vape regulation without immediate legal penalties.

Vaping Laws Changes for Travellers to Australia

For travelers coming to Australia, you can bring empty vape devices or non-nicotine vape liquids. If you want to buy nicotine vapes in Australia, you’ll need a valid prescription due to the new vape regulations. 

Remember, vapes must be packed in your carry-on luggage—not checked bags—and you’re not allowed to use or charge them during flights. Following these rules will help ensure a smooth trip without any issues at the airport or during your travels.

Right Knowledge, Better Choices

Making confident choices often comes down to having the right information. Many of us struggle simply because we lack the knowledge to make smart, informed decisions. Knowing the new vaping laws can be an important step toward protecting your health and staying on the right side of the law.

With the right knowledge, you can make choices that align with your well-being and the regulations around you. Take a moment to understand these changes—it’s a small investment in knowledge that can lead to healthier decisions and a future you can feel good about.

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