Teenage vaping has turned a corner in Australia, says Mark Butler, as data shows falling rates
Guardian2 days
Australian Teen Vaping Rates Drop After Government Ban
Above: Image copyright: Chris Ratcliffe/Bloomberg/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-government narrative
Australia's tough vaping laws are clearly working to protect kids from dangerous nicotine addiction. The government's world-leading approach of banning disposable vapes and restricting sales to pharmacies has successfully turned the tide on youth smoking. These results prove that strong regulation combined with education campaigns can effectively combat the vaping epidemic targeting children.
Government-critical narrative
While vaping rates have declined, the black market is always a concern, with the possibility of illegal sales still occurring at tobacconists and vape shops. Continued vigilance and enforcement are essential to prevent these early gains from being reversed as criminals adapt to the new regulatory environment.