Claims the federal government is “turning pharmacies into vape shops” have prompted the drafting of new Tasmanian-specific anti-vaping legislation.
Health Minister Guy Barnett said the state’s approach is “nation-leading” and will protect the community from the dangers of vaping.
Under the proposed changes tabled in parliament on Wednesday, a ban on the sale of vape products to people under 18, with or without a prescription, will apply.
It will also mean e-cigarettes can only be supplied by pharmacies to people over 18 with a prescription.
“It is clear the federal government has not gone far enough. They are failing our children and young people,” Barnett said.
“We do not agree with [their] legislation and our legislation will take strong action to resolve it.”
In July, the federal government designated nicotine vapes as regulated therapeutic goods only available at pharmacies.
Their changes made it illegal for any other business, such as tobacconists, vape shops and convenience stores, to sell any type of vape product.
The federal laws mean from October, people over 18 will be able to purchase nicotine vapes limited to 20mg/ml from a pharmacy without a prescription, while people under 18 can get one with a prescription.
“Given the parliamentary sitting schedule, the Director of Public Health will be issuing a temporary direction to ensure these changes can take effect from October 1,” Barnett said.
This will allow time for the bill to be debated in parliament.
