I am very concerned about the rise of vaping, especially as she I have teenage children of my own. And from the number of emails and calls received from constituents, it seems like this is a concern shared by many in the community. 

I recently proposed a motion in Parliament calling for stronger restrictions on the importation and distribution of vaping products. I urged the Minister to take urgent action to implement a federal ban on all unprescribed e-cigarettes regardless of nicotine content, impose stronger border control regulations on vaping products and to update federal anti-tobacco advertising laws.  You can hear my full speech here. 

I have met with a number of health and policy experts to understand the magnitude of the problem and some possible solutions. Evidence is emerging that current federal regulations are not adequately meeting the aim of preventing children and adolescents from accessing vaping products, while supporting access to products of known composition and quality for smoking cessation with a doctor’s prescription. Children are accessing vaping products in high numbers, and many adults are accessing vaping supplies on the black market, rather than through lawful supply channels with a prescription from an Australian registered doctor.

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), which regulates vaping products, has recently conducted a public consultation.  The public submissions to this consultation will inform discussion with Government about reforming vaping regulations to reduce the ability for children and adolescents to access vaping products.

I will be following this closely to ensure your voices are heard.