South Australia Hits Record Low Smoking Rate of 7.5% in 2025
The South Australian State Government has reported a historic milestone, with daily smoking rates plunging to a record low of 7.5% in 2025. This achievement, outlined in the latest tobacco reduction report, highlights significant public health progress under the South Australian Tobacco Strategy 2023–2027, though officials warn that surging youth vaping demands urgent action.
The report measures progress against 15 key targets aimed at minimizing smoking and vaping-related harm. The data reveals substantial declines across multiple key demographics over the past few years.
| Demographic Group | Previous Smoking Rate (Year) | 2025 Smoking Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Population | 10.6% (2020) | 7.5% |
| Youths (15 to 29-year-olds) | 9.7% (2021) | 5.1% |
| Adults (30 to 59-year-olds) | 11.8% (2021) | 9.9% |
| People with Mental Illness | 16.6% (2021) | 12.3% |
Alongside the drop in active smokers, the average age of smoking initiation has seen a positive shift, rising from 16 years in 2019 to 17 years.
Health Minister Blair Boyer praised the figures as a significant public health achievement but emphasized that the state cannot become complacent. Tackling the rise in youth vaping and disrupting the illicit tobacco trade remain top priorities for the government.
To combat the shift from combustible tobacco to e-cigarettes, South Australia has invested heavily in vaping prevention campaigns over the past two years. This strategy includes expanding cessation support and tightening regulations to restrict youth access to vaping products.
Public health experts echo this dual sentiment. Preventive Health SA Chief Executive Marina Bowshall highlighted the need for sustained education and regulation. Meanwhile, Cancer Council SA Senior Manager Christine Morris reminded the public that despite the encouraging trend, smoking remains a leading preventable cause of cancer.
Looking ahead, the state government is exploring further legislative reforms to dismantle the black market. Currently, illicit tobacco and vaping products account for an estimated 55% of Australia’s total trade, presenting a major hurdle in completely eradicating nicotine-related harm.
- News reference：South Australia records its lowest smoking rate ever
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