With an election approaching in September, it is imperative for our politicians to introduce a significant measure for all Australians.
Currently, less than twenty percent of the population smokes, yet there is a concerning rise in the number of younger individuals
who are picking up the habit for the first time. It’s evident from the advertising targeting smokers, urging them to quit now. The taxable income derived from smoking is dwindling, and this downward trend is likely to persist in the future.
In both business and social environments, smoking is prohibited. Smokers find themselves marginalized, facing increasing difficulty in locating places to smoke aside from their own homes. As the next election approaches, the time is ripe to propose legislation that halts the production and sales of cigarettes throughout Australia. This is the necessary step to protect the youth of tomorrow by finally eradicating smoking.
For older individuals, those experiencing mental health struggles, and people with certain clinical conditions, cigarettes can be available through prescriptions. The savings to the healthcare system would offset the loss of tax income from cigarette sales.
Many smokers desire to quit yet face challenges in making the final choice. It’s time for politicians to take action and implement laws to ban smoking immediately.
Restricting smoking in public areas and limiting television advertisements have already contributed to a decrease in smoker numbers, making it essential to move forward to the next phase. Although increasing the price of cigarette packs could generate revenue, it effectively divides smokers into wealthier and poorer groups.
Prohibiting cigarette production is a more equitable solution for all…let’s make banning smoking an election promise.
by Danny Mason
