The percentage of young Australians in the age bracket of 18-24 years who used vapes declined from 20.6 per cent in 2022-23 to 14.0 per cent in 2025. These percentages are from the National Drug Strategy Household Survey of the AIHW which was published in July 2026. The decline in the number of vapers mostly involved individuals who vaped less frequently than daily since the proportion of this category reduced from 11.3 per cent to 5.8 per cent. However, daily vaping among young adults did not change significantly because its proportion reduced by 1 per cent from 9.3 to 8.3 per cent. Thus, why did the use of vapes infrequently decrease while the frequency of daily vaping remained unchanged? This phenomenon can be explained using devices such as the Alibarbar 9000 vapes.
Why Flavour Became A Regulatory Issue?
Mostly, disposables like Alibarbar 9000 vapes had bright colours and appealing designs and flavours that included fruits and desserts. Therefore, the regulatory agencies viewed the flavours of vapes as an issue that should be regulated since they would attract more young individuals. According to the TGA, the prohibition of therapeutic vapes with mint, menthol and tobacco was aimed at making them less appealing to young users. Plain pharmaceutical packaging was required for similar reasons.
What The Latest National Survey Has Revealed?
A total of 17,500 individuals aged 14 years or older participated in the survey in the period from June to December 2025. Overall, the rate of use of e-cigarettes decreased from 7 per cent to 6 per cent. As mentioned by the AIHW, this decline was driven by young people. However, it is important to note that the current survey cannot be used to show the causes of this change. It is the first national survey after 2024 reforms.
Legality Of The Alibarbar 9000
Alibarbar 9000 is advertised as a disposable vape that can provide up to 9,000 puffs. The disposability feature makes it illegal in Australia since July 2024 as the manufacture, sale, and possession of disposable vapes became unlawful across the nation at that time. Therapeutic vapes in pharmacies can only be reusable and must comply with TGA product standards.
Advertising Through Constant Novelty
Vape advertisements are highly limited, with restrictions concerning any promotion via social media postings and content online. However, unboxing videos and reviews may still be shared among consumers. New colours and flavours will allow products to stay in demand despite being illegal. Moreover, new designs are rapidly changing, and vapes begin to look like highlighters and USB sticks.
Signs That Parents, Carers, And Teachers Should Be Aware Of
Unusual smells of sweets without a visible source and odd-looking USB sticks or similar devices may be seen. Mood changes, issues with sleep and focus may occur but not necessarily indicate vaping. It is best to have calm and curious conversations as lectures close the issue fast. NSW Health provides a vaping toolkit for students, parents, carers, and teachers. Quitline service (13 7848) and the free My QuitBuddy app will help those who want to quit vaping.
What Is Coming Next Due To The Shortage Of Supply?
Nicotine-based products are attracting attention now. AIHW found that 8.4% of Australians aged 18-24 used nicotine pouches in the last year. Quit services warn about potential risks of using multiple nicotine-based products that increase dependence without people even realising it.
The reduction in casual youth vaping is a positive trend, and statistics are worth considering. Further attention should be paid to the actual substance, not the specific device containing it.
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