Campaigning for Legislative Change to Tackle Teenage Smoking
Cancer Society - Smoke Free Environments Act
THE CHALLENGE
To stop adolescents from smoking and reduce the initiation rate among young people. Our research had revealed that tobacco retail displays significantly influenced young people's decision to start smoking. Our goal was to advocate for the banning of tobacco retail displays in New Zealand.
THE RESPONSE
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Coalition Building: Formed a strategic coalition with various stakeholders, including health organisations, schools, and community groups. Engaged with youth and parents to foster community support and awareness.
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Community Engagement: Mobilised the school community to take action, promoting awareness of the dangers of smoking. Launched educational campaigns within schools to inform students and parents about the impact of tobacco advertising.
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National Petition: Created a petition that received thousands of signatures from supporters across New Zealand, demonstrating widespread public backing for the initiative.
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Media Campaign: Executed a comprehensive media campaign that included press releases to highlight the health risks associated with tobacco, social media outreach to engage younger audiences and raise awareness, and collaborations with local health advocates to amplify the message.
THE RESULTS
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Political Support: Secured political backing, leading to a high-stakes briefing with the New Zealand Health Minister.
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Law Change: Retail tobacco displays were ultimately banned in New Zealand through an amendment to the Smoke-free Environments Act 1990, as a direct result in the campaign. This marked a historical victory in the fight against adolescent smoking for the Cancer Society.
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Impact on Smoking Rates: Adolescent smoking rates decreased from 24% to 17% in the first two years, reflecting the effectiveness of the policy change.