The National Retail Association (NRA) is outlining a different approach to legalising the sale of vaping products, in its submission to the Senate Inquiry.
Previously the NRA have expressed concern with the current plan.
The NRA’s submission proposes a model that would allow small business to transition away from cigarettes.
It requires strict regulation, in line with existing cigarette sales laws, but will open a pathway for both smokers and retailers to quit cigarettes.
The submission proposes a regulatory framework developed by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to regulate smoke-free tobacco products, based on the three principles – reducing harm, helping Australian smokers, and protecting Australian kids.
“This model recognises that 20,000 retailers – who already have trusting relationships with Australia’s 3 million smokers – are well placed to act as the frontline in helping customers move to a less harmful product category,” says the NRA submission.
“And in time, with the right regulation, this model will result in Australia to becoming the first country in the world to eliminate the sale of cigarettes completely.”
The NRA submission continues: “Small businesses have spent many years making the case to the Department of Health for the opportunity to be involved in a properly regulated market for less harmful vaping products, including one overseen by strict retailing provisions akin to the way tobacco products are dealt with at present.
“This includes age verification, regulated packaging, advertising bans, ingredient and quality standards. Suitable models already exist globally with New Zealand recently adopting what is considered a best practice approach.”