OurFutures Vaping: preventing the next generation from vaping | The University of Sydney
OurFutures Vaping is Australia’s first rigorously evaluated vaping-prevention program, developed by the University of Sydney’s Matilda Centre. With vaping now the leading behavioural issues in Australian high schools, affecting one in six students, the program uses interactive, cartoon-based digital lessons to help young people make informed health choices - tackling peer pressure and misinformation with science and storytelling.
A landmark trial of 5,000 students, published in The Lancet Public Health, found the program cut the odds of e-cigarette use by 65 per cent - the largest study of its kind globally.
Now reaching 160,000 students across 600 schools, the co-designed, curriculum-aligned program supports mental health, requires no teacher training and works even in low-tech classrooms – turning world-class research into real-world impact for young Australians.
Entrant: Dr Lauren Gardner, Professor Nicola Newton, Professor Maree Teesson, Dr Amy-Leigh Rowe, A/ Professor Emily Stockings, Dr Katrina Champion
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Co-designing solutions with students and teachers — a hallmark of the OurFutures Vaping program’s evidence-based, youth-informed approach to preventing e-cigarette use.
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Students carrying OurFutures Vaping materials, symbolising progress and empowerment through education — part of a national movement to prevent youth vaping and promote wellbeing.
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Students interact with co-designed, curriculum-aligned digital lessons — showcasing how OurFutures Vaping equips young people with real-world skills to resist vaping and support their peers. Individuals: from left to right: Dr Katrina Champion, Prof Nicola Newton, Prof Maree Teesson, Dr Lauren Gardner and A/Prof Emily Stockings.
Minister for Health the Hon Mark Butler MP announces the research results and support for the national rollout of OurFutures Vaping — reinforcing the government’s commitment to evidence-based, youth-informed prevention strategies. Individuals: The Hon Mark Butler MP, high school students, and others.
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