Easy Access to E-cigarettes for Children in Melbourne, Australia

According to a report by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) on November 30, a new study has found that children in the western suburbs of Melbourne, Australia, can easily purchase e-cigarettes illegally.

A report by the Western Public Health Unit (WPHU) has revealed that the majority of e-cigarette shops are located within a distance of less than 750 meters from schools. Third-party retailers, including both cigarette and e-cigarette stores, account for one-third of all e-cigarette sales outlets, while the rest are comprised of milk bars, grocery stores, convenience stores, cafes, and non-food retailers.

WPHU has discovered 59 stores in Brimbank selling e-cigarettes. The average price of e-cigarettes is $25, with prices ranging from $10 to $45.

The next phase of the Australian government's crackdown on e-cigarettes is set to begin on January 1st, when the ban on importing disposable e-cigarettes will come into effect. Dr. Romanes, Director of the WPHU, expressed his hope that this will be a turning point.

He stated, "At some point next year, there will be a comprehensive ban on the commercial sale of non-prescription e-cigarettes, marking a highly significant moment.