Vaping regulations in Australia are set for a major revision, with new measures taking effect on July 1, 2024, as the government addresses what it refers to as "the largest loophole in Australian healthcare history."

The federal government has adjusted its ongoing strategy, initially introduced last year, following an agreement with the Greens to implement a modified version of the legislation that alters the purchasing process for these products for Australians.

Here are the details of the new regulations following the passage of the Therapeutic Goods and Other Legislation Amendment (Vaping Reforms) Bill 2024.

Technically, recreational vaping has been prohibited, though vapes remain available for individuals seeking to quit smoking. Under the new laws effective July 1, these products may only be purchased at pharmacies, and a prescription will be required for purchase. There are restrictions in place regarding flavours, nicotine levels, and packaging.

Beginning October 1, there will be further changes - prescriptions will be eliminated, but vapes will be classified as therapeutic goods that are kept behind the counter. As a result, customers will need to present photo identification and engage in a consultation with a pharmacist before they can purchase these products. However, individuals under the age of 18 will still need a doctor's prescription to buy a vape, even after October 1.

This marks a departure from the government's initial intention to continue requiring prescription-only access. Starting March 1, 2024, it is now illegal to import disposable vapes, regardless of their nicotine content. This prohibition extends to individuals purchasing vapes overseas and having them shipped to Australia for personal use.

The brightly coloured vapes, which appeal to younger consumers and have been available in vape shops, are not intended to contain nicotine. However, research has indicated that they frequently do.

Vaping devices are also being associated with a significant increase in adolescent smoking rates. Health officials acknowledge that although the new strategy isn't flawless, it could prevent approximately 1,000 young Australians from beginning to vape each week. General practitioners can prescribe vaping products, and pharmacists are permitted to fulfil these prescriptions.

Starting in October, a prescription will no longer be necessary; however, the exclusive location for their purchase will be pharmacies. Pharmacists have expressed their dissatisfaction with this development, labelling the revised regulations as "insulting." The Pharmacy Guild of Australia stated, "There is limited evidence supporting the effectiveness of vaping products for quitting smoking and managing nicotine dependence."

Additionally, they have raised concerns about potential assaults on their establishments. Victoria has experienced multiple attacks on retail outlets during ongoing tobacco conflicts. While general practitioners endorse the proposed measures, they admit it is "not perfect." There are concerns that vaping could be driven into the black market.

Reference:

• 9NEWS, Australia

Written By: Md.Imran Wahab, IPS, IGP, Provisioning, West Bengal
Email: [email protected], Ph no: 9836576565