Australia has achieved a significant milestone in reducing smoking rates, with only 5.6% of individuals aged 14 and over smoking daily in 2025, as revealed by the National Drug Strategy Household Survey. This figure marks a notable decrease from 8.3% in 2022-23, bringing the country closer to its national goal of reducing daily smoking to 5% or less by 2030.
The survey also highlighted a positive trend, showing that more than two-thirds of Australians aged 14 and above have never engaged in smoking, setting a new record. Despite the overall decline in smoking, there has been a rise in the consumption of illicit tobacco. Approximately 34% of smokers admitted to using illicit tobacco, a substantial increase from 16.7% in the previous survey. Among these, more than half reported purchasing illicit tobacco from tobacconists.
Nationwide nicotine use has also seen a decrease, dropping from 17.4% to 15.2%. Additionally, vaping among individuals aged 18 to 24 has seen a significant reduction, falling from 20.6% to 14%. Yet, the survey also noted an uptick in the use of nicotine pouches and snus, particularly among younger Australians.
Public health experts emphasize that these findings underscore the necessity for stricter enforcement against illicit tobacco. They advocate for ongoing tobacco control measures, including public education, reforms in licensing, and tighter restrictions on tobacco sales, to maintain and enhance the progress made in reducing smoking rates.