South Australia announces stricter vaping laws to take effect in 2024

South Australia will implement stricter nationwide laws next year to crack down on smoking and vaping.

From March 1 next year, on-the-spot fines of A$105 will apply to people caught smoking or vaping in a range of public places where both are banned, along with criminal penalties of up to A$750.

Outdoor areas where smoking and vaping are prohibited include shopping center entrances, schools, beaches, and outdoor public swimming pools.

The move is in line with the federal government’s vaping reforms, which will ban the import of disposable vapes from January 1 next year.

South Australian Health Minister Chris Picton said now is the ideal time to make a New Year’s resolution to quit this deadly habit.

“Smoking is our biggest preventable killer and cause of disease, and we need to do more to stop its destructive impact,” he said.

“We make no apology for seeking to introduce tougher bans and penalties, particularly in places involving children.

“Smoking takes a tragic toll on human life and also places a burden on our health system in providing care for those affected.”

To inform the community about the new bans, an advertising campaign will launch at the end of January, with ads appearing on social media, radio, billboards, buses, and in shopping centers.

Chief Public Health Officer Professor Nicola Spurrier said the changes bring South Australia one step closer to a smoke-free generation.

“The feedback from our consultation reflects growing community concern about the health impacts of smoking and secondhand smoke,” she said.

“These new measures support a smoke-free South Australia and set the best behavioral example for the next generation.”

These tough new laws were introduced under South Australia’s Tobacco and E-Cigarette Products Act 1997 following extensive consultation with the community.

The government has also proposed increasing the maximum court fine for selling tobacco products to minors from A$1,200 to A$2,400.

Fines for businesses that sell tobacco products to minors will increase from A$20,000 to A$40,000.

Under the proposed changes, cigarette vending machines will be banned. Currently, licensed venues are allowed to have only one cigarette vending machine on site.