As youth vaping continues to raise concern across Australia, innovative, culturally responsive programs like Clouded Minds are stepping up to make a difference. This award-winning initiative equips young people with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make informed choices, supporting healthier, vape-free futures.
Cancer Council NSW reports that 68% of 14-17 year olds have never vaped. Clouded Minds helps to reshape social norms and behaviours by providing preventative education and early intervention in schools.
What is Clouded Minds?
Clouded Minds is a school-based vaping education program delivered by Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) Health Promotion Officers and Aboriginal Health Workers. Through interactive, discussion-based sessions, students learn about the health impacts of vaping, how to identify the influence of peer pressure, and explore strategies for quitting or supporting others.
After winning the Excellence in Aboriginal Healthcare Award (2025), Clouded Minds has seen continued momentum. More high schools across the LHD are joining the program, with a primary school version currently in development to reach younger students before vaping becomes a concern.
More than just education
What sets Clouded Minds apart is the positive peer connection and honest youth-led conversations. Facilitators, including Aboriginal Health Workers, bring a non-judgmental approach that helps students feel comfortable asking questions and challenging misinformation.
“It’s not just about saying ‘don’t vape’ it’s about listening to young people, providing education for prevention, understanding why they start, and giving them real tools to change,” said Health Promotion Officer, Grace Kline.
The PAVE App: support in your pocket
To complement school-based learning, students are introduced to the PAVE App (Positive Approaches to Vaping Education) a free digital tool designed to help young people on their quit journey. The app includes features like:
- personalised self-assessments
- progress tracking
- goal setting
- evidence-based quit tips and motivation
The app empowers users to take control at their own pace and offers support between sessions.
Get involved
Whether you’re a teacher, parent, carer or health professional, you can support young people by encouraging open conversations about vaping and pointing them to resources that help.
Visit NSW Health’s Vaping Toolkit or the Mid North Coast Local Health District’s Youth Vaping Hub for up-to-date information and resources.
To enquire about Clouded Minds or access support, contact [email protected]
