Key Changes in Vaping Laws

1. Import Restrictions:

From 1 January 2024: It is illegal to import disposable vapes.
From 1 March 2024: Importing non-therapeutic vapes is prohibited. Prescriptions are required for therapeutic vaping products under the Personal Importation Scheme.

2. Availability and Sale:

Only pharmacies can dispense therapeutic vapes, ensuring controlled and safe distribution. Retailers are given a limited window to sell existing stocks of non-compliant products.
Selling nicotine vaping products without a prescription remains illegal.

3. Advertising and Promotion:

The promotion and advertisement of vaping products without a prescription are strictly prohibited. These restrictions are intended to limit the exposure and appeal of vaping, especially to young people.

4. Increased Quality Standards:

New regulations will enforce higher minimum quality standards for vaping products, including pharmaceutical-like packaging and reduced nicotine concentrations and volumes.

5. New Legislation:

From 1 April 2024, the Public Health (Tobacco and Other Products) Act 2023 will come into effect, applying the same bans on advertising and sponsorship to vapes as those for tobacco products.

Why These Changes Are Important

The Australian Government’s initiative aims to protect young people from the harms of vaping and nicotine dependence. By regulating the import, sale, and advertising of vaping products, these laws are designed to reduce nicotine addiction rates and ensure that only high-quality, safe products are available to those who need them for therapeutic purposes.