When it comes to combatting the rise of vaping, Geelong’s youth are at the forefront.
Since its youth council identified vaping as a priority in 2023, Geelong council has initiated and supported a number of programs, projects and bodies to bring together young people to reduce the harms of vaping in our community.
And young people have responded.
Established last year, the Youth Vape Prevention Action Group includes student leaders from around Geelong who work to create vaping prevention resources, support the trial of vape recycling bins and create promotional content highlighting the environmental and health impacts of vaping, among other things.
Youth Vape Prevention Action Group member Isabella Harvey said when it came to vaping, young people were the experts.
“We see where and how it happens, we understand the pressures behind it, and we know what messages other young people will actually listen to,” she said.
“Young people are capable of thinking outside the box and designing solutions that really connect with our peers.
“It makes sense that we take the lead on projects like this, where creativity, authenticity, and open‑minded problem‑solving are essential.”
Last year the action group, along with schools across the region, participated in the making of a short film, which was screened last month at Geelong Library.
The film showcases the youth co-designed projects across the Barwon South West region, featuring interviews with young participants discussing their collaborations, what they learned and their reflections on their projects.
The group also endorsed the City’s trial of vape recycling bins, strategically located at youth hubs, which began in July last year.
Vapes, classified as e-waste due to their batteries and harmful materials, cannot be disposed of in regular rubbish bins.
Thanks to significant usage of the vape bins, the City has extended the trial until 30 June this year and installed two ongoing disposal locations at its resource recovery centres.
Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj thanked the young people involved in spreading the word about the harms of vaping.
“Members of the Youth Vape Prevention Action Group are passionate about the health of their peers and are key to helping them see vaping for the dangerous habit that it is,” Mayor Kontelj said.
“We’re focusing on supporting genuine youth-led projects as they ensure outcomes are relevant and impactful.”
