Australia’s daily smoking rate has reached an unprecedented low, with only 5.6% of individuals aged 14 and over smoking daily as of 2025, according to the most recent National Drug Strategy Household Survey. This significant decrease from 8.3% in 2022–23 brings the country closer to its ambitious goal of reducing daily smoking to 5% or less by 2030.
The survey also highlighted that more than two-thirds of Australians aged 14 and older have never smoked, marking the highest level recorded to date. Despite the overall decline in smoking rates, there has been a notable increase in the use of illicit tobacco. Approximately 34% of smokers admitted to using illicit tobacco, a rise from 16.7% in the previous survey. A significant portion of these individuals reported purchasing illicit products from tobacconists.
Additionally, the survey revealed a general decline in nicotine use, dropping from 17.4% to 15.2%. Vaping, particularly among those aged 18 to 24, also saw a reduction, falling from 20.6% to 14%. However, the data indicated a growing trend among younger Australians towards the use of nicotine pouches and snus.
Public health experts emphasize the need for enhanced measures against illicit tobacco alongside ongoing tobacco control initiatives. These measures include public education campaigns, reforms in licensing, and stricter regulations on tobacco sales, all aimed at sustaining the progress made in reducing smoking rates.