NSW has announced that electronic cigarette users will need to pay a fine up to $550 if caught vaping in smoke-free areas.

From July 2018, bystanders will be protected from passive exposure to vapour under the new electronic cigarette laws. 

“Put simply, where you are not allowed to smoke cigarettes, you now cannot vape either,” Health Minister Brad Hazzard said. 

He added that the new law will not ban the usage of electronic cigarettes, but legally consider vaping as equal as other forms of smoking. 

NSW will follow Queensland, Victoria, Tasmania, and ACT in imposing these laws. 

NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant supported this implementation as she explained some potential health risks associated with e-cigarette vapours.

“E-cigarette vapours can contain chemicals, toxins and metals, and some of these substances, like formaldehyde, are already known to cause cancer,” Dr Chant said. 

“The National Health and Medical Research Council states e-cigarettes expose both users and bystander to very small particle which may worsen existing illnesses or increase the risk of developing cardiovascular or respiratory disease,” she added.  

She emphasised that the vapours may be harmful, even with no illegal nicotine in the e-liquid. 

E-cigarettes are continuing to be considered harmful, following the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s decision to disapprove  e-cigarette products as an aid to help quit smoking.