NSW launches new $6.8 million crackdown on illegal vaping
The NSW government has committed $6.8 million in an effort to crack down on rising levels of illegal vaping in the state.
Premier Chris Minns said the three-year investment is aimed at protecting the health of children and other young people addicted to vaping.
“We’re committed to taking the fight against illegal vapes, particularly to protect children and young people from the dangers of vaping,” he said.
“The evidence suggests that vaping is now becoming a gateway for an increase in smoking rates in young people.
“This is a significant public health challenge and taking action on the illegal imports of vapes is going to require cooperation with all levels of government.”
Under the new policy, $4.3 million will be allocated towards enforcement and compliance measures, while the remaining $2.5 million will be put towards measures to help young people quit their addiction.
That includes a new digital platform and an “online learning module for youth services across the state”.
The announcement comes as NSW is on track to more than double the number of illegal vapes seized last year.
This time in 2022, NSW Health had seized 61,000 of the products. This year, the number stands at 187,000.
When combined with the e-liquids seized by authorities, NSW Health said the street value of the illegal goods is over $11.8 million.
“Tough action is needed to stop the illegal sale of vapes containing nicotine, and to prevent vapes from finding their way into the hands of minors,” Health Minister Ryan Park said.
“As the evidence around just how damaging vaping is mounts and the number of young people who vape increases, we need to put everything into the fight against it.
“Vapes contain dangerous chemicals which can seriously impact a person’s health, with young people especially vulnerable.
“Many of the chemicals, including flavours, have not been tested for safety when inhaled into the lungs.
“I urge the community to support the efforts of NSW Health by reporting those retailers who are doing the wrong thing.”
The federal government in May banned the import of non-prescription vapes and placed stringent restrictions around the flavours and packaging permitted in the products.
Federal Health Minister Mark Buttler said the Commonwealth would also work with states and territories to crack down on the sale of vapes in convenience stores.
