State cracks down on sale of potentially deadly 'nangs'

The New South Wales Government is cracking down on the sale of nitrous oxide, conceding an increase in recreational use is leading to serious harm.

The chemical compound is used legally in hospitality and medical industries, but can also be used as a recreational drug — often referred to as nangs.

In New South Wales it will be illegal to sell cylinders or tanks containing more than ten grams of nitrous oxide from November 5.

It will also be illegal to sell bulbs, which typically contain 8-10 grams of nitrous oxide, to anyone under 18.

In Australia, nitrous oxide is typically sold over the counter by retailers like tobacconists or online by companies offering 24/7 delivery services.

Since 2020, more than a dozen deaths around the country have been examined for the potential role of nitrous oxide, including its involvement in accidents like drowning, car crashes, suffocation and complications from chronic use.

The NSW government reforms will put the onus on retailers selling nitrous oxide.

Between 10pm and 5am, sales will be restricted to a 250g limit on the amount of nitrous oxide an individual can purchase.

Same day delivery and supply will also be restricted.

NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said the crackdown was coming to protect vulnerable younger people in the state.

"The prevalence of nitrous oxide abuse — or nangs — is escalating in our community, and it is having a profound impact on the health of our young people," Mr Park said in a statement.

Businesses found to be in breach of the new NSW rules could be fined $11,000 per offence, while any individual selling in breach of the regulations can face fines of up to $2,200.

Businesses would also be required to keep a record of sales to ensure they are compliant with new supply limits.

The dangers of nangs

A recent 7.30 investigation examined the easy access to nitrous oxide, its booming imports into Australia, and its potentially deadly outcomes.

Royal Perth Hospital toxicologist Dr Jessamine Soderstrom said medical impacts of recreational nitrous use are wide-ranging.

"It causes depression, psychosis, and if you've got a pre-existing mental health issue, it worsens that,"

she said.

Chronic use can also cause nerve damage and lead to long lasting physical disabilities, including paralysis.

Sam Bramman previously told 7.30 how nangs took a grip on his life and he says the nation needs to pay close attention.

"Other states need to step up to the plate and their needs to be a national harmony," Mr Brammam told 7.30 on Thursday.

"Just by seeing those laws ... it would have made it very hard to access”

In NSW a consultation process on new nitrous oxide regulations started in March 2024, but those reforms are only now being enforced.

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