Report shows teenage vaping has ‘turned a corner’

New data is showing a significant decline in vaping rates among Australian teenagers, the Australian Medical Association (AMA) has described the findings as a “turning point in youth health” and a testament to the power of strong policy, education, and community awareness. Data released by Health Minister Mark Butler shows vaping rates among 14–17 year-olds have fallen from 17.5 per cent at the start of 2023 to 14.6 per cent in April this year. Gateway Health chief executive officer Trent Dean said this encouraging trend signals that policy reform and sustained public health efforts are beginning to make an impact. “Community-led, locally relevant initiatives are what turn policy into practice, and we see every day how access to education, culturally relevant messaging and peer support shape young people’s decisions around vaping,” he said. "While tighter regulation and enforcement remain critical, ongoing investment in place-based prevention, youth engagement and health literacy are essential to maintain the momentum. "Schools, youth services, councils and community organisations all play a vital role in creating environments that support the health and wellbeing of our young people. "The slight rise in youth smoking reported alongside the vaping data is a timely reminder that progress in one area must not come at the expense of another. "Vaping and smoking must be tackled as part of the broader landscape of commercial determinants of health that require a united, sustained response." The figures are drawn from the Cancer Council’s latest Generation Vape research, which is considered the most comprehensive survey on vaping in Australia. The data includes responses from about 3000 young people and shows a broader decline in vaping across all age groups. Key findings include vaping rates among Australians aged over 15 have reduced by more than a third, vaping among adults aged 30–59 has halved, exposure to vaping content on major social media platforms has dramatically decreased, and fewer teens are purchasing vapes themselves, and curiosity about vaping continues to decline — with fewer than one-third expressing any interest in vaping. AMA vice president associate professor Julian Rait described the findings as “deeply encouraging”. “We’re witnessing a real shift in behaviour and attitudes, and these results mark a significant step forward in protecting young Australians from the harms of vaping," he said. “We’re seeing fewer teens picking up vapes, less curiosity about vaping, and a growing sense of embarrassment around being a ‘vaper’. "That signals a real cultural change — and that’s a win for families, schools, and communities. “The message is getting through. “Teens are telling us vaping is no longer seen as cool or aspirational; that it’s not something ‘everyone does’ anymore. "It’s a turning point in how young Australians view vaping — and a major stride for public health. “This is not the time to take our foot off the pedal. “We’ve made significant progress, but we must keep pushing forward to protect the health of the next generation.” The AMA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting evidence-based strategies to reduce youth vaping and smoking, and called for continued vigilance as new products and marketing tactics emerge. Gateway Health supports the AMA’s call for continued vigilance and sees this as an opportunity to double down on community-driven prevention, ensuring all young people, regardless of postcode or background, have the support they need to live healthy, tobacco-free lives. If you, or someone you know, wants support to quit, visit www.quit.org.au or call Gateway Health on (02) 6022 8888.

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