Australia has achieved a significant milestone in its public health efforts, with daily smoking rates reaching an unprecedented low. According to the latest National Drug Strategy Household Survey, only 5.6% of Australians aged 14 and over were daily smokers in 2025. This marks a notable decrease from the 8.3% recorded in 2022–23 and brings the country closer to its national objective of reducing daily smoking to 5% or less by the year 2030.
The survey also reveals that a substantial majority of Australians, over two-thirds of those aged 14 and above, have never taken up smoking. This figure represents the highest level of non-smokers recorded so far. Despite this positive trend, there has been a concerning rise in the use of illicit tobacco. Approximately 34% of smokers admitted to using illicit tobacco, a significant increase from 16.7% in the previous survey. Notably, more than half of these individuals reported purchasing illicit tobacco from tobacconists.
In terms of overall nicotine consumption, there has been a decline from 17.4% to 15.2%. The survey also indicates a drop in vaping among individuals aged 18 to 24, with numbers falling from 20.6% to 14%. However, there is a growing trend among younger Australians towards the use of nicotine pouches and snus, which are gaining popularity.
Public health experts emphasize the importance of these findings, noting the critical need for stronger measures against illicit tobacco. They advocate for continued tobacco control strategies, which include public education initiatives, reforms in licensing, and tighter restrictions on tobacco sales. These efforts are deemed essential to maintaining the momentum in reducing smoking rates and addressing the challenges posed by illicit tobacco and alternative nicotine products.