Vaping/e-cigarette reforms have been continuously implemented across Australia this year. Things are always changing in this space, and it can be confusing, so we thought it’s time for another update on how things are progressing.
The first stage of the stricter regulations were enforced on January 1st 2024, with the second stage coming into effect shortly after on March 1st 2024.
In summary until now:
- All disposable vapes became illegal on 1st Jan 2024, however vape shops were given an amnesty period to on-sell their existing stock.
- Reusable vapes for therapeutic use may be accessed legally under the TG Act if prescribed by a doctor or nurse practitioner for smoking cessation purposes, or for managing a nicotine dependence.
- From March 1st, a ban on the importation of all vapes was put into place for anyone without an import licence and permit.
So, what’s changed with Australia’s vape laws now?
Only available at pharmacies
From 1st July 2024, nicotine vapes in Australia are only able to be sold at pharmacies for therapeutic use (to assist people in quitting smoking or to manage nicotine dependence).
Buying e-cigarettes with a prescription
Until 30th September 2024, a prescription is required from a doctor or nurse to buy vapes from a pharmacy.
Buying e-cigarettes without a prescription
From 1st October 2024, people 18 years and over will not need a prescription to purchase nicotine vapes from a pharmacy (unless a concentration of nicotine higher than 20mg/ml is required). People under 18 years will still need a prescription to purchase vapes, subject to state and territory laws. The laws in some jurisdictions prevent the supply of any vape to a person under 18.
FAQs
Is Australia banning vapes in 2024?
Disposable vapes and those for recreational use are banned. Reusable vapes for therapeutic use may be accessed legally from a pharmacy with a prescription from a doctor or nurse.
Can you legally buy vapes in Australia?
Yes but only with a prescription, for therapeutic use.
What will happen to vape shops in Australia?
Non-pharmacy retailers (online or in-store), such as tobacconists, vape shops and convenience stores, cannot sell any type of vape, regardless of if they contain nicotine or not.
Will dry herb vapes be banned in Australia?
All vapes are banned, unless they are required for therapeutic use (prescribed by a doctor or nurse practitioner to help the person quit smoking or manage a nicotine dependence).
Sources:
Australia’s 2024 Vaping Regulations: What you need to know. (2024, July 1). Quit. https://www.quit.org.au/articles/australias-2024-vaping-regulations-what-you-need-to-know
Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. (2024, February 6). New laws for vapes. Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. https://www.health.gov.au/vaping/new-laws
Author: Francesca Wallis
