Proposed Tasmanian vaping reforms

Primary Health Tasmania supports initiatives that reduce the harm caused by use of e-cigarettes and cigarettes.

Vaping can damage people’s physical and mental health by exposing them to harmful chemicals. As with tobacco smoking, there is no such thing as ‘safe’ vaping.

We welcome the Tasmanian Government’s willingness to tackle this critical public health issue, and look forward to the opportunity to discuss and better understand the details around implementation of the Government’s proposal announced on 30 August. We believe this should include education and resources to support the community, GPs and pharmacists in adapting to the changes, and we offer our support in this area.

A benefit of requiring a GP prescription for a vape is that this provides an opportunity for a conversation about the underlying reasons for vaping and the health effects of vaping and tobacco smoking. It gives a chance for people to be supported to quit – or not start – in a way that meets their needs and gives them the best chance of success.

We see restricting access to vapes as part of a longer-term journey to totally eliminating the harm caused by vaping and tobacco smoking, and contributing to a heathier population in Tasmania.

More information about vaping is available on the Tasmanian Department of Health’s website. This includes information for consumers and health professionals, with links to resources.

Need help to quit vaping or smoking?

You can phone a Quitline advisor on 13 78 48 (free service), or talk to your doctor or pharmacist for advice.