THE National Heart Foundation praises the Government’s tobacco plain packaging legislation following results released today showing it is responsible for a significant decline in smoking rates, labelling it a yet another win against Big Tobacco.
The figures come from the Government’s Tobacco Plain Packaging – Post Implementation Review that confirms approximately one quarter of the total decline in smoking rates were attributable to plain packaging since the legislation was introduced in December 2012.
Adding further credence to the results, the report also concluded that “this effect is likely understated and is expected to grow over time.”
National Heart Foundation tobacco control spokesperson, and President of the Australian Council on Smoking and Health, Maurice Swanson said this report sends a clear message that plain packaging on tobacco products works.
“The report undeniably shows that the legislation is working and has been the catalyst for tens of thousands of adults quitting and saved the lives of many thousands of Australians,” said Mr Swanson.
“The legislation was always designed for long-term impact and if these results are merely the start of the journey, a smoke-free Australia could one day be a reality.
“It cannot be denied that smoking takes its toll on the health of so many Australians and their families, and is a leading cause of preventable death amongst our population.
“The report supports the mounting evidence that shows plain packaging is undisputedly discouraging both children and adults alike from taking up, or continuing to smoke.
“Plain packaging, regular increases in tobacco tax and smoke-free areas, among other measures, have all played a critical role in driving down Australia’s smoking rates, now at just 12%.”
The Heart Foundation applauds the bi-partisan commitment to strong action in prevention.
The Government, in particular Health Minister Sussan Ley and Minister for Rural Health Fiona Nash are to also be commended for remaining steadfast in its approach despite strong opposition from the tobacco industry.
Ryan Fritz
Ryan Fritz started The Advocate in 2014 to provide not-for-profits and charities another media platform to tell their worthwhile hard news stories and opinion pieces effortlessly. In 2020, Ryan formed a team of volunteer journalists to help spread even more high-quality stories from the third sector. He also has over 10 years experience as a media and communications professional for not-for-profits and charities and currently works at Redkite, a childhood cancer charity.
