New nitrous oxide regulations now in effect
New regulations to protect people from the harmful effects of nitrous oxide (NO2), known as ‘nangs’ have been introduced today.
The new regulations will not impact medical use of nitrous oxide, which is already heavily regulated under WA law, however individual members of the public will no longer be able to buy nitrous oxide for non-legitimate purposes.
The purchase of small 10-gram nitrous oxide canisters will only be accessible to:
- registered food businesses
- businesses with a liquor licence that prepare alcoholic drinks on-site
- educational and training institutions
- cooking school businesses.
Suppliers are required to collect evidence nitrous oxide canisters are being sold to registered food or beverage businesses, while buyers will need to provide evidence they are an approved recipient.
Anyone caught unlawfully selling nitrous oxide can get an on-the-spot penalty of $6,000 or up to $30,000 if convicted in court.
A public health campaign, aligned with the introduction of the new regulations, aims to raise awareness of the increasing harms of using nitrous oxide which can lead to devastating health issues including permanent brain and spinal cord damage.
People seeking help to address nitrous oxide use can contact the Alcohol and Drug Support Line. This is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week via 9442 5000 or 1800 198 024 for country callers. Support can also be found on the Drug Aware website.
For further information regarding the change to the Medicines and Poisons Regulations 2016, visit the Department of Health website.