Australia’s New Vape Regulations: Prescription Now Required for Purchases

In a bid to tackle rising concerns over vaping, especially among young Australians, the country has introduced new regulations restricting the sale of vapes to pharmacies, and they will only be available with a prescription. The shift is part of Australia’s broader effort to reduce the growing public health risks associated with e-cigarettes and vaping.

Started in 2024, vapes no longer be sold in convenience stores, petrol stations, or online retail outlets. Instead, individuals looking to purchase e-cigarettes or vape products will need to consult with a doctor and obtain a prescription, much like other nicotine-based cessation products such as patches or gum .

Why the Change?

Australia has seen a significant rise in vaping, particularly among younger people. Health authorities are concerned about the potential long-term health impacts, given that vaping can lead to nicotine addiction and lung damage, even though it is often marketed as a safer alternative to smoking. There has been growing evidence that vaping is not as harmless as initially thought, leading the government to introduce tighter controls .

Impact on Retail and Consumers

For consumers, this means that purchasing vapes will involve visiting a healthcare provider to assess their need for nicotine-based products. Retailers who previously sold vapes, including convenience stores and online shops, will be barred from doing so, shifting the sale exclusively to licensed pharmacies .

The government hopes that by restricting access to these products, particularly through prescription, it will significantly reduce recreational use and help individuals use vaping as a tool to quit smoking rather than a new form of addiction .

Australia’s tough stance on vaping aligns with its historically strict anti-smoking policies, and this new regulation underscores the country’s commitment to promoting public health.