From the Executive Deputy Principal

Vaping and Young People

Over the past decade, the rise of vaping has become a growing concern for schools and communities across Australia. While initially marketed as a smoking cessation tool for adults, vapes—or e-cigarettes—have quickly become widely used by young people, many of whom have never smoked traditional cigarettes. This trend poses serious risks to adolescent health, wellbeing, and development, and it calls for increased awareness and proactive action from both families and schools.

Vaping involves inhaling vapour from an electronic source, be it a cigarette or vape, which is a battery-powered device that heats a liquid into aerosol form. These liquids often contain nicotine, artificial flavourings, and a blend of unspecified chemicals. Vapes are frequently designed to look like everyday items—USB drives, pens, or cosmetic products—making them simple to conceal, particularly in school settings or within the home.

The vaping industry is now worth billions of dollars globally. Alarmingly, conservative estimates suggest that approximately one in three Australian adolescents have experimented with vaping, with some progressing to regular use.

While long-term research into vaping continues to emerge, current evidence creates a concerning picture. Nicotine is one of the most addictive substances known and has well-documented effects on the developing brain. Studies show that young people who vape may be exposed to nicotine levels up to five times higher than those in traditional cigarettes. This increases the risk of developing dependency at a young age. The presumed intentionality of this should be alarming for parents and educators alike.

Professor Emily Banks, an epidemiologist at the Australian National University, notes that vaping is particularly harmful for non-smokers and adolescents. “Vapes are more dangerous than smoking because they are easier to access, more discreet, and highly appealing due to flavouring and targeted marketing,” she states. “For many young people, vaping is not a way to quit smoking—it's the start of a new and harmful habit.”

In addition to nicotine, many vaping liquids contain substances linked to respiratory illness, cardiovascular issues, and other serious health concerns. Short-term effects reported by users include headaches, nausea, chest pain, and breathing difficulties.

In Victoria, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to purchase, possess, or use vaping devices or accessories. It is also illegal to sell, market, or promote vapes to minors. Nicotine-containing vapes are classified as prescription-only medicines and can only be obtained legally through a pharmacy with a valid script from a medical professional.

Despite these regulations, illegal sales continue—particularly through social media platforms where enforcement is difficult.

Social media plays a significant role in the rise of vaping among adolescents. Platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram are filled with videos that glamorise vape use through trends and “challenges.” Some of this content is directly or indirectly sponsored by vape manufacturers using tactics known as “dark marketing”—targeted advertisements that fly under the radar of regulators and often escape parental oversight.

In some cases, young people are even able to purchase vapes via social media, connecting with unverified sellers and bypassing age restrictions altogether.

Addressing the issue of youth vaping requires a community-wide effort. Schools are increasing their education around the harms of vaping and implementing strategies to detect and discourage use on campus. However, parental involvement is crucial.

Monican parents are encouraged to have open, honest conversations with their children about vaping. Ask questions, share concerns, and provide clear, evidence-based information. Avoid fear-based messaging. Instead, focus on the known health risks, the addictive nature of nicotine, and the long-term consequences of use.

For students, making positive choices means resisting peer pressure and understanding that vaping is not a harmless alternative—it is a pathway to addiction and serious health risks. Choosing to stay vape-free is not only a sign of independence but also a commitment to personal wellbeing and future success.

Vaping is not a trend to be taken lightly. The growing prevalence of vaping among adolescents is a health issue, a legal concern, and a challenge that we must face together. By staying informed, fostering open communication, and promoting healthy choices, we can continue to support and educate Monican students to navigate this issue, and make informed decisions that protect their future.

Miss P Di Maria

Executive Deputy Principal