Smoking rates in Australia have dropped to a historic low of 5.8%, according to data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare released on Friday, July 16th, 2026. This decline equates to 500,000 fewer daily smokers compared to three years ago, nearly double the government's 2025 target.

Vaping rates nationwide have also decreased, falling from 7% to 6%. However, the National Drug Strategy Household Survey, which sampled 17,500 Australians aged 14 and over, found that the use of multiple nicotine products has doubled in the last year. The survey reported for the first time that 3.6% of respondents used oral nicotine products known as snus, and 8.4% used nicotine pouches within the past year.

The report highlighted that "this is an emerging area of concern and could potentially represent an increase in the average amount of nicotine being consumed by people who smoke, use e-cigarettes and also use other nicotine products."

Health Minister Mark Butler stated the government's focus remains on protecting younger Australians and combating the illicit tobacco trade. With up to four in five cigarettes smoked in Australia being illegal, according to recent Australian Bureau of Statistics data, enforcement challenges persist. Authorities emphasize the need for increased resources and political will across all states and territories to strengthen tobacco laws and disrupt illegal supply chains.

The Australian government has also committed to strong and ongoing regulatory and enforcement actions to protect the community from the harms associated with nicotine pouches.

Sources