As someone who has been vaping for several years now, I have noticed that the popularity of electronic cigarettes (or e-cigarettes) has been steadily increasing in Australia. As a result, the demand for e-liquids – the flavored liquid used in e-cigarettes – has also been on the rise. In this article, I will provide you with a comprehensive guide about e-liquids in Australia, including their regulations, popular brands, and the current state of vaping in the country.
Let’s start with the basics – what exactly are e-liquids? Simply put, e-liquids are a combination of propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), flavorings, and sometimes nicotine that are used in e-cigarettes. They are heated up by a battery-powered coil in the e-cigarette, producing an aerosol (or vapor) that is then inhaled by the user. E-liquids come in a variety of flavors, ranging from fruity and sweet to tobacco and menthol.
Regulations and Laws Regarding E-liquids in Australia
E-liquids are regulated under the Therapeutic Goods (Excluded Goods) Order 2017 in Australia, which means they are not classified as therapeutic goods and are therefore not subject to the same strict regulations as medicines. However, they are still subject to several laws and regulations that aim to ensure their safety and quality.
Firstly, e-liquids must follow the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) labeling requirements. This means that they must have clear labels stating the ingredients, warnings, and any other relevant information. Additionally, e-liquids cannot contain any prohibited or restricted substances, and their nicotine concentration must not exceed 3.6%.
Secondly, the sale of e-liquids is prohibited in some states and territories in Australia. In New South Wales (NSW), e-liquids containing nicotine are not allowed to be sold, while in Queensland, Western Australia, and Tasmania, both nicotine and non-nicotine e-liquids are banned from sale. However, they can still be legally purchased and imported for personal use. In Victoria and South Australia, e-liquids with nicotine are only allowed to be sold with a valid prescription.
Popular E-liquid Brands in Australia
With the increasing popularity of vaping in Australia, there has been an influx of e-liquid brands in the market. Here are some of the most popular and reputable brands available in Australia:
1. VapeSourcing
VapeSourcing is a leading online retailer that offers a wide selection of e-liquids from popular brands such as SMOK, VOOPOO, and GeekVape. They have a user-friendly website that allows customers to easily browse and purchase e-liquids and other vaping products.
2. Vapoureyes
Vapoureyes is a well-known Australian e-liquid brand that offers high-quality, hand-crafted e-liquids in a variety of flavors. They also have an option for customers to create their own custom flavors, making them a favorite among vapers who enjoy experimenting with different flavors.
3. Mighty Vape
Mighty Vape is another popular Australian brand that offers a vast range of e-liquids, including their signature range of premium e-liquids and the budget-friendly Brave range. They also have a subscription service where customers can have their favorite e-liquids delivered to their doorstep on a regular basis.
The State of Vaping in Australia
The use of e-cigarettes and vaping remains a contentious topic in Australia. While some believe that they offer a less harmful alternative to traditional cigarettes, others argue that the long-term effects of vaping are still unknown and that it may be used as a gateway to smoking for young people.
In 2016, Australia’s National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) released a statement declaring that there is currently insufficient evidence to support the use of e-cigarettes for smoking cessation. However, the statement did acknowledge that vaping may be less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes.
Despite the lack of evidence supporting the use of e-cigarettes for smoking cessation, it is estimated that there are around 200,000 vapers in Australia. This number is expected to increase as more people become aware of the benefits of vaping and as the technology and flavors of e-liquids continue to improve.
In conclusion, while the laws and regulations surrounding e-liquids in Australia may seem restrictive, they are in place to ensure the safety and quality of these products. As the popularity of vaping continues to grow, it is important that users are knowledgeable about the regulations and laws in their state or territory to avoid any potential legal consequences. With numerous reputable e-liquid brands available in the market, vapers in Australia can continue to enjoy a variety of flavors while being mindful of their health and the laws surrounding vaping.