THE first stage of Australia's new vaping reforms is set to commence on 01 Jan 2024 with further protections implemented over the course of next year.
The Govt will implement a ban on the importation of disposable single-use vapes which is subject to legislative and administrative arrangements being approved, including by the Governor-General in the Federal Executive Council.
In parallel with this ban, a new Special Access Scheme pathway to prescribe vapes will commence on 01 Jan, which will facilitate improved access to therapeutic vapes, whereby nurse practitioners and all medical practitioners will be able to prescribe their use where clinically appropriate.
From 01 Mar 2024 further changes are expected to commence, including the cessation of the personal importation of vapes and a ban on the importation of non-therapeutic vapes, the Govt has confirmed.
Therapeutic vape importers and manufacturers will be required to notify the TGA of their product's compliance with the relevant product standards, and importers will need to obtain a licence and permit from the Office of Drug Control for their products.
During 2024, product standards for therapeutic vapes will also be strengthened, including limiting flavours, reducing permissible nicotine concentrations and the need for pharmaceutical packaging.
A transition period will be allowed for businesses to comply with the new requirements.
The Govt stated it will introduce legislation in 2024 to prevent domestic manufacture, advertisement, supply and commercial possession of non-therapeutic and disposable single-use vapes to ensure comprehensive controls across the supply chain.
To introduce and enforce these reforms, the Govt will provide an additional $25m to the Australian Border Force and $56.9m to the TGA over two years. JG
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 29 Nov 23
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