{
  "id": 14096024,
  "title": "Free nicotine patches on offer to Tasmanians as young as 12",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/13/free-nicotine-patches-on-offer-to-tasmanians-as-young-as-12",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-10-13T02:29:29.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ABC News AU",
    "slug": "abc-news-au",
    "url": "https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-10-13/tasmania-quit-smoking-help-extended-to-over-12s/107260230"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Free nicotine patches, gum, and lozenges are now available to Tasmanians aged 12 and older seeking to quit smoking or vaping. This expanded program, previously limited to specific priority groups, will continue until the end of June 2027. The monthly package, worth up to $100, aims to address the cost barrier that many face when quitting. QuitTas director Abby Smith emphasizes that combining behavioral support with nicotine replacement therapy, like patches, offers the best chance of successful quitting. Previously offered only to priority groups including young people, new and expecting parents, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, and those eligible for lung cancer screening, the program will now be available to anyone in need of support. QuitTas manager Nyre Harris notes that counsellors will regularly check on participants to ensure the products are effective. Ineligible individuals might include those undergoing surgery, taking certain medications, or having heart problems. Tasmania has one of the highest smoking rates in Australia, with 17.6% of adults smoking daily or occasionally. The program, funded by the Tasmanian government, is expected to benefit around 400 participants, providing them with up to $300 in savings from not purchasing tobacco or vapes.",
  "summary": "Tasmanians wanting to give up smoking will be given a leg up on their journey with the recent expansion of a free 12-week program offering a wide suite of support.",
  "key_points": [
    "Free nicotine patches, gum, and lozenges offered to Tasmanians aged 12 and older.",
    "Program expanded from previous priority groups, funded by Tasmanian government.",
    "Aim to address cost barrier, with monthly package up to $100."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Removing financial barriers to nicotine replacement therapy broadens access to essential cessation tools for all Tasmanians, shifting the focus from specific priority groups to a universal support model.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}