Free nicotine patches on offer for Tasmanians quitting smoking, vaping

A Tasmanian program providing free nicotine patches, gum and lozenges to people trying to quit smoking or vaping has been expanded to include anyone aged 12 and over. The monthly package, valued at up to $100, is available to those who contact QuitTas for support and who do not have serious complicating health conditions. QuitTas director Abby Smith said combining behavioural support with nicotine replacement therapy, such as patches plus an oral product like gum, gives people the best chance of quitting successfully. Previously offered only to priority groups — including people aged 12 to 25, new and expecting parents, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and those eligible for a national lung cancer screening program — the products will now be available to other Tasmanians. QuitTas has budgeted about $144,000 for the program in 2026–27, supporting roughly 400 participants. The products are supplied over a 12-week course, during which participants can save up to $300 on top of what they save by not buying tobacco or vapes. QuitTas manager Nyre Harris said counsellors regularly call participants to check the products are working and that they are progressing in their quit journey. Some conditions, such as recent or upcoming surgeries, certain medications and heart problems, may make people ineligible, though those with complex medical conditions may still access the products under a general practitioner's guidance. Tasmania has Australia's second-highest smoking rate, with 17.6 per cent of adults smoking daily or occasionally. QuitTas counsellor Adam Mitchell said the service has seen an increase in calls from young people seeking to stop vaping, and encouraged anyone considering quitting, or even just making a small change, to get in touch. The expansion is funded by the Tasmanian government and runs until the end of June 2027.

(Source：ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation))