A recent study from Notre Dame University highlights that convenience stores in Australia are still breaching the country’s new anti-vaping laws, which prohibit the sale of single-use vapes. Despite legislation enacted by the Federal Government last year, the research found that 11 out of 32 convenience stores in Perth’s CBD were selling vapes discreetly. This trend seems to extend to other major Australian cities, with estimates suggesting that approximately 1.7 million Australians are currently vaping.
Professor Terry Slevin from the Public Health Association of Australia critiqued the convenience store owners for undermining public health efforts aimed at reducing vaping among Australians. He stated that the continuing illegal sales were unsurprising, as this sector has a history of prioritising profits over community health. These illicit sales are reportedly taking place across the country.
Angela Gazey, from Notre Dame University, echoed Slevin’s concerns, describing the stores’ activities as counterproductive. She pointed out the incongruity of associating ‘convenience’ with a product that is not only illegal to sell but also poses significant health risks.
However, the study did note some positive effects of the vaping legislation, revealing that 117 vape shops and counters had closed, while 76 stores that previously stocked vapes have ceased to do so. Despite these advancements, Slevin urged for better enforcement measures and harsher penalties for businesses that continue to sell vapes illegally. He emphasised the importance of proactive monitoring, border inspections, and stiff consequences for rule-breakers to safeguard the health of young Australians.
The pursuit of these regulations is critical in the effort to prevent a future epidemic of vaping-related diseases. Public health experts stress that immediate action is necessary to combat the health risks posed by vaping, underscoring the need for stringent measures aimed at those profiting from these illegal sales.