Wellbeing

Publication Date

5-31-2025

Subjects

Behaviour patterns, Drug education, Drug use, Health behaviour, Health education, Smoking, Social behaviour, Stimulants, Well being

Comments

This independent research was commissioned by Life Education NSW Limited (Life Ed NSW/ACT). The ACER research team wish to thank Life Ed NSW/ACT, and Jane Lowe in particular, for their valuable expertise and constructive feedback in guiding the development of this report. Additionally, we acknowledge and thank the support of the nib foundation for funding this report.

Abstract

This report presents findings from data collected through the Reality Now program, providing a long-term study exploring tobacco and vaping behaviours among Australian secondary school students. Conducted from 2018 to 2024, the program collected nearly 30,000 responses from students in Years 7 to 11. Using a social norms approach (SNA), the program aimed to identify and correct misperceptions about peer substance use and promote healthier behaviours. This report focuses on tobacco and vaping behaviours, whereas the broader program also examined the use of alcohol, cannabis, and MDMA. The findings show that while actual tobacco and vape use remain low, students consistently overestimate how many of their peers engage in these behaviours. These inflated perceptions can influence decision-making and increase risk-taking. This report explores how these misperceptions evolve, the impact of attitudinal shifts across year levels, and the effect of demographics on attitudes and behaviour. Considerations from the findings for teachers, students and parents/cares are provided.

Place of Publication

Camberwell, Australia

Publisher

Australian Council for Educational Research

ISBN

978-1-74286-791-5

DOI

https://doi.org/10.37517/978-1-74286-791-5

Geographic Subject

New South Wales, South Australia

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