The increasing demand and popularity for vaping across age groups have led the Government to begin taken new measures to restrict and deter individuals from vaping.[1] Vapes can still be purchased at pharmacy’s, however, individuals will now require a prescription.[2]

The new legislative amendments are provided under Therapeutic Goods and Other Legislation Amendment (Vaping Reforms) Bill 2024, which has passed both houses on the 27 June 2024.[3] The bill seeks to amend the following legislation:

• ·      Therapeutic Goods Act 1989 (Cth);

• ·      Customs Act 1901 (Cth)

• ·      Industrial Chemicals Act 2019 (Cth)

• ·      Public Health (Tobacco and Other Products) Act 2023 (Cth).

The amendments to the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989 (Cth) include, s 41Q, s 41QA and s 41QB; which provides that it will be considered an offence to import, manufacture or supply vaping goods in Australia unless the person has gained consent from the Secretary under s 41RB.[4]

Further information regarding the Bill and the amendments that will be coming into effect can be found on the Parliament of Australia website under Therapeutic Goods and Other Legislation Amendment (Vaping Reforms) Bill 2024.[5]

Author: Lara-Jane Mackie

[1] Sarah Swain, Daniel Jeffrey. (2024). ‘What is going on with Australia’s vaping laws?’. 9 News. <https://www.9news.com.au/national/vaping-laws-australia-new-vaping-laws-aim-to-stop-young-people-using-harmful-devices-explainer/5ed575aa-e9c2-4983-8740-737c701b6464>.

[2] Ibid.

[3] Therapeutic Goods and Other Legislation Amendment (Vaping Reforms) Bill (No 50) 2024 (Cth).

[4] Ibid.

[5] Ibid.