Members Health has welcomed yesterday’s announcement of tougher enforcement of vaping laws, which will see imports of disposable single use vapes banned from 1 January 2024.
“Vaping was supposed to help people quit smoking but instead has become an insidious gateway to nicotine drug addition,” Members Health CEO, Matthew Koce said.
“The number of younger people and in particular vulnerable children becoming addicted to vapes is of particular concern.”
“Vaping is a major health issue and it is pleasing to see Federal Health Minister, Mark Butler showing decisive national leadership.”
“Reports of vapes being sold near schools and produced in flavours, like bubblegum, to appeal to children is unconscionable,” he said.
“The full health impacts of vaping are still unknown but early signs are concerning. Some reports point to risk of sever lung damage, accelerated tooth decay and impacts on mental health.”
“Research has shown some vapes contain dangerous chemicals such as ethylene glycol, which is used in air conditioning units and to de-ice airstrips.”
“Australia has been a world leader in reducing smoking rates and the last thing we want is for that achievement go up in smoke thanks to dangerous and addictive vapes.”
“The Federal Health Minister, Mark Butler, is to be commended for taking an all of Government approach to address vaping. Stopping the import of illegal vapes at the Australian Boarder is an important step that will also require support of state law enforcement.”
Members Health is the peak industry body for an alliance of 25 health funds that are not-for-profit or part of a member-owned group, regional or community based. They all share the common ethic of putting their members’ health before profit. Our funds represent the interests of more than 5.3 million Australians.
Media Contact
mkoce@membershealth.com.au
0407 852 010