TikTok comedians Jaxon and Lachlan Fairbairn, cricketer Ellyse Perry and gamer JackBuzza are among a host of influencers who will lead Labor’s new youth anti-vaping campaign.
Many already have significant followings, particularly amongst the age demographics most likely to pick up vaping, and Health Minister Mark Butler says they will help spark conversation about the use of e-cigarettes.
“It’s pretty clear that teenagers don’t watch TV or listen to health ministers, much as I might like them to, which is why we’ve partnered with influencers that young people listen to,” he said on Wednesday.
Pro-vaping content plagues the corners of the internet frequented by young people.
According to government data, TikTok hosts more than 18 billion vape posts – many of which show content creators doing “vape tricks”.
Instagram is similarly home to more than 18,000 influencers dedicated to pro-vaping content.
“We know that a lot of our peers vape, so it’s important to us that we support a campaign that will educate people on the harms of vaping and help them seek support if they want it,” Fairbairn said.
We’re partnering with influencers to launch an anti-vaping campaign. Education is a key step to stopping Big Tobacco from luring young Australians into nicotine dependency. pic.twitter.com/8U9kxMnBl7
— Mark Butler MP (@Mark_Butler_MP) February 27, 2024
Perry added that she was keen to join the campaign.
“As a professional athlete, I know that even occasional vape use would have significant consequences for both mental and physical performance on and off the field,” she said.
Actress Ella Watkins, surfers Zahlia and Shyla Short, diver Sam Fricker, businesswoman Lottie Dalziel and Twitch streamer HeyImZed are also part of the government’s campaign.
From Friday, new restrictions come into effect banning the importation of all vapes without a licence and permit, which are aimed at ending personal importation schemes and improving quality and safety standards for therapeutic vapes.
Since the government’s January 1 ban on importing single-use vapes, more than 360,000 vapes worth almost $11 million have been seized by the Australian Border Force and the Therapeutic Goods Administration.
The government is also set to introduce legislation preventing the domestic manufacture, advertisement, supply and commercial possession of non-therapeutic and disposable single-use vapes.
AAP
