From today, Australians aged 18 and over can buy nicotine vapes without a prescription at pharmacies as new national vaping laws take effect.
However, the changes have sparked controversy, with several states and pharmacy groups pushing back.
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Despite most states adopting the Federal Government’s reforms, Tasmania and Western Australia have opted to keep vapes prescription-only.
The changes follow the move in July, making Australia the first country to ban vape sales outside of pharmacies.
Despite the relaxation of the law, the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, representing 5,800 pharmacies, has rejected the changes.
Many large pharmacy chains, including TerryWhite Chemmart and Priceline, say they will not supply vapes due to safety concerns.
No nicotine vapes are currently approved by Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
Under the new regulations, pharmacists must assess whether vapes are intended for smoking cessation, and sales will remain restricted to certain flavours and plain packaging.
However, vapes remain illegal for non-therapeutic use, and individuals aged under 18 will still require a prescription.
Health Minister Mark Butler defended the reforms, saying they aim to prevent youth access while helping smokers quit.
“These laws are taking vapes out of the hands of our kids and stamping out recreational vaping … while allowing access for hardened smokers who want to kick the habit,” Mr Butler said.
“The days of bubblegum-flavoured vapes covered in rainbows and unicorns are over. The cynical marketing to our children is done.”
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