I’m excited to share new findings from the Next Generation: Youth Wellbeing Study, led by distinguished Professor Sandra Eades AO. Their latest paper focuses on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth aged 10–15 years and explores what helps them choose not to smoke. This study found that most youth (90%) had never smoked and were motivated by their own health, family and friends to be smoke-free. More than half of the study participants said worry about their health was a key reason for not smoking. The second most common reason was that family or friends told them not to, highlighting the important role of supportive, positive relationships and strong social norms.
Protective factors for never smoking included:
• Having friends who do not smoke • Living in a smoke-free home • Not drinking alcohol • Taking part in recreational activities • Being engaged at school • Having good mental and physical health • No involvement with the criminal justice system.
Take Home Message for TIS Teams:
The ages 10–15 are a critical time for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth to make smoke-free choices that benefit long-term health. As TIS teams, your work to promote smoke-free homes, schools, and communities provides the supportive environments youth need to be able to make those choices. Encouraging youth to stay engaged in education, sport, and cultural activities supports their overall wellbeing and strengthens protective factors against smoking. By promoting good mental and physical health alongside clear, positive smoke-free messages within families and communities, you help build resilience and a strong sense of identity. Make culture, family, and connection to Country central to your work. Using strengths-based approaches like these empowers youth and supports continued reductions in smoking rates among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
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For more of Connie the Clever Cockie’s updates, visit the Tobacco Control News page.
