ACT Strengthens Efforts Against E-Cigarettes and Illicit Tobacco
The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Health Minister stated that the government will not relax its efforts against vapes and illicit tobacco, and will continue to strengthen regulation, legislation, and enforcement. Speaking at the launch of a new vapecessation program for young people, she said that lowering tobacco excise taxes would not substantially reduce profits in the illicit tobacco market.
Key Takeaways
- ACT Health Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith stated that the government will continue to combat vapes and illicit tobacco.
- Lowering tobacco excise taxes will not substantially reduce illicit tobacco profits; focus should remain on enforcement and legislation.
- The ACT’s first vapecessation and nicotine dependence support service for young people has been launched at The Junction Youth Health Service.
- The program provides free education, counseling, and support services to ACT residents aged 24 and under.
- The Junction received a $660,000 (approximately US$448,800) grant through the ACT government’s open funding process for three years.
Government Focuses on Enforcement Over Tax Reduction
On March 10, 2026, according to Region.com. Rachel Stephen-Smith emphasized that the ACT government will not relax efforts against e-cigarettes and illicit tobacco. She noted that nicotine addiction should be addressed through strengthened regulation and enforcement, rather than lowering tobacco excise taxes to counter the black market.
She argued that reducing excise taxes is the “wrong direction,” citing global examples where lower taxes have not curtailed the black market due to low production costs relative to retail prices. Even eliminating 50% of excise taxes would not substantially reduce illicit tobacco profits. The key lies in enforcement and stronger legislation to enhance regulatory and criminal measures.
Combating the Rapid Expansion of the Vape Market
Stephen-Smith highlighted that the rapid growth of the vape market has caught governments off guard. Large tobacco companies are quickly targeting youth. Early proliferation of vape flavors and packaging exemplifies this trend. The ACT government plans to continue strengthening regulations, legislation, and enforcement to manage vape availability and curb illicit tobacco activity.
Launch of the Vapecessation Program for Youth
The ACT has launched its first dedicated support service for young people to quit vapes and overcome nicotine dependence, available through Anglicare’s The Junction Youth Health Service.
“Nicotine Knockout @ The Junction” is free for ACT residents aged 24 and under, providing evidence-based, non-judgmental support through education, counselling, and assistance services. The federal government funds the program through a three-year AU$660,000 (approximately US$448,800) grant awarded to The Junction via an open ACT government process.
Youth-Focused Treatment and Support
Research shows one in eight Australians aged 12 to 17 uses vapes, and half of them want to quit but face barriers such as cost and difficulty.
Jasmine Woodland. Senior Manager of Children, Youth, Family, and Health Services at Anglicare explained that the 12-week program combines treatment at The Junction with educational programs in schools and communities.
The treatment component provides practical, youth-appropriate support in a safe, flexible environment. Including consultations with general practitioners and nurse practitioners, nurse-led counseling, support from youth workers, online group sessions, free nicotine replacement therapy, and ongoing follow-up.
