Australia's daily smoking rate falls to historic low of 5.6%

The 2025 National Drug Strategy Household Survey shows daily smoking among Australians aged 14 and over fell to 5.6%, down from 8.8% in 2022‑23 and 11.1% in 2019. The reduction means the number of smokers dropped from an estimated 2.3 million in 2019 to about 1.3 million in 2025, the lowest prevalence on record.

Researchers attribute the decline to sustained tobacco excise increases and stronger tobacco‑control measures. Professor Marita Hefler of Flinders University said, “The fall in smoking prevalence is extremely welcome and shows that strong government commitment to reducing smoking works.” Professor Richard Edwards added, “The new survey findings undermine the case being made by the tobacco industry… it suggests increases in tobacco excise and other measures continue to have the desired result.”

E‑cigarette use among young adults also fell, with no corresponding rise in cigarette smoking. Distinguished Professor Emily Banks of the Australian National University noted, “The results show that more than 90 percent of people in Australia do not smoke.” However, health experts warn that nicotine addiction persists via illicit tobacco, vaping and emerging nicotine products, and that smoking still kills around 66 Australians each day. They call for further actions such as tighter retailer licensing, reduced retailer numbers near schools, enhanced enforcement against illicit tobacco, and expanded education and cessation support.