Health & Wellbeing

26 May 2024

Nearly two million health professionals, along with parents, carers, and members of the public school community, are united in support of the Australian Government's evidence- based e-cigarette reforms. A call backed by the endorsement of the Community Affairs Legislation Committee's recently released report.

"As we see growing concerns among parents, carers, and educators regarding the rise of e-cigarette use among students, our focus must remain steadfast on the well-being of our children. It's disheartening to see the impact of vaping in schools, not just on individual
health but also on our collective mission to nurture a conducive learning environment," says P&C Federation NSW President, Yvonne Hilsz.

"Our support for the Government's e-cigarette reforms is driven by a commitment to safeguard the health and future of our children, ensuring they can thrive in a smoke- free environment." Ms Hilsz said.

Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand (TSANZ) CEO, Vincent So adds, “The Reforms Bill is the support today’s youth need, stopping the addiction cycle in its track before it’s too late. Passing this legislation is common sense. Once implemented, the prescription-only model will allow Australian parents to rest assured knowing that their children are safe from the harms of
e-cigarettes.”

“The overwhelming evidence shows us that nicotine is highly addictive and can harm adolescent brain development, which continues into the early to mid-20s. Worryingly, adolescent nicotine use may also increase the risk for future addiction to other drugs and
has been associated with mental health symptoms such as depression,” warns TSANZ Deputy Tobacco Special Interest Group Convenor and pediatric respiratory physician, Dr Moya Vandeleur.

“Lung cancer is already Australia’s biggest cancer killer. We must not make the same mistakes we made with cigarettes. The Government’s vaping reforms are vital to protecting the health of Australians. It’s not about party politics, it’s about simple good old-fashioned evidence-based public health policy that protects the lungs of Australians,” says Mr So.