Released 04/03/2026
The ACT’s first vaping cessation and nicotine dependence support service specifically dedicated to supporting young people has opened at Anglicare’s The Junction Youth Health Service.
Nicotine Knockout @ The Junction is available free of charge to all ACT residents aged 24 and under, offering evidence-based, non-judgemental support through education, counselling and support services.
Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said the initiative fills a gap in the ACT’s health system by providing young people with a safe and accessible pathway to quit vaping and smoking or manage their nicotine dependence.
“Vaping, smoking and nicotine dependence is an increasing concern for young people, their families and their schools. Recent national research found that while one in eight young Australians aged 12-17 years consider themselves ‘current’ users of nicotine products, over half of them would like to quit or cut down their use, but many said they would find it hard to do so,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.
“Nicotine Knockout @ The Junction will give young people clear information, practical strategies and compassionate support tailored to their specific needs. This is about early intervention, harm reduction and ensuring young Canberrans can access help when they need it.
“Education is a key component of Nicotine Knockout @ The Junction. The Junction staff will hold sessions for educators, youth workers and students focused on the harms associated with vaping, common myths, risk factors and harm reduction approaches.
“Counselling and therapeutic programs will be offered to young people, where participants can take part in up to twelve weeks of flexible counselling, develop an individualised plan and access additional support through SMS check-ins and drop-in sessions. Where clinically appropriate, young people may also be provided with cost-free nicotine replacement therapy.”
The new service is funded by the Australian Government through a Federation Funding Agreement with the ACT. The Junction was the successful recipient of an open grant process run by the ACT Government, providing $660,000 in funding over three years.
“The ACT Government’s partnership with The Junction and the Australian Government reflects its commitment to supporting youth health services that are accessible, trusted and reflect best-practice approaches. Nicotine Knockout @ The Junction was developed based on consultations with clinical experts and young people in the ACT,” said Minister Stephen-Smith.
“By working with experienced community providers, we can reach young people in the places they feel most comfortable. Nicotine Knockout @ The Junction will empower young Canberrans to make informed choices and to seek support when they feel ready, no matter what stage they are at in their journey.”
The service is now available to young people across the ACT. More information, including a self-assessment tool and how to access Nicotine Knockout @ The Junction, can be found at www.nko.org.au.
Quotes attributable to the Hon Mark Butler MP, Commonwealth Minister for Health:
“The Albanese Government is committed to protecting Australians from the harms of tobacco, vaping and nicotine addiction, and is supporting states and territories to expand and scale up their quit services.
“This important initiative from the ACT government will help young Australians make informed choices as they go through their quitting journey.
“The launch of the ACT’s Nicotine Knockout @ The Junction is another positive step in ensuring support is available to help young people quit smoking and vaping.”
Quotes attributable to Narelle Luff, Senior Coordinator at The Junction:
“At The Junction, we regularly see young people struggling with nicotine addiction, which has become a growing health concern among our cohort.
“We welcome the opportunity to provide dedicated support to help young people reduce their nicotine use and work towards quitting.
“By now offering the Nicotine Knockout program, a multidisciplinary team of doctors, nurses and youth workers can provide continuity of care and a clear referral pathway for young people seeking help.”
- Statement ends -
Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases