Member for Manly, James Griffin MP has called on the Minns Labor Government to take urgent action to address the rising recreational use of large 3.3 litre nitrous oxide canisters, commonly known as ‘nangs’, which are increasingly being misused by young people across the Northern Beaches and throughout New South Wales.
Speaking in the NSW Legislative Chamber this week, Mr Griffin spoke of warnings he had received from the Northern Beaches Police Area Command about the growing prevalence of these large canisters and the serious risks they pose. While nitrous oxide is legally available for legitimate commercial purposes, the emergence of large 3.3 L canisters has changed how the gas is being used recreationally, allowing users to inhale dangerously high quantities in one sitting.
“The health consequences of inhaling any quantity of nitrous oxide are well documented, but the risks associated with misusing these larger cannisters is even more severe,” Mr Griffin said.
“Medical experts have highlighted risks such as permanent neurological damage, psychosis, incontinence, and, in some cases, even death. Beyond the health impacts, discarded canisters are increasingly being found dumped across parks, streets, and public spaces in our communities, creating a growing environmental and public safety problem.”
Mr Griffin also noted that access to these large nitrous oxide canisters remains alarmingly easy with current legislation in New South Wales failing to address the rise of ‘nangs’.
“Most concerning is the accessibility of the canisters. Rapid, 24/7 delivery is a major concern, with a cursory Google search revealing multiple websites openly advertising same‑day shipping for a wide range of nitrous oxide products, sometimes disturbingly in combination with balloons or other paraphernalia that encourage recreational use.”
“That easy access is made even more alarming by gaps in the current legislation, which does not sufficiently restrict sales to minors or limit high‑volume purchases. As a result, young people in communities like my own can obtain those dangerous products with alarming ease,” Mr Griffin said.
The problem is compounded by the fact that sales often occur through the same networks that distribute illegal tobacco and vapes, making them difficult to regulate and monitor effectively.
Other jurisdictions, including South Australia and Western Australia, have already introduced measures to restrict access to nitrous oxide, including limits on sales, bans on late-night deliveries, and restrictions on larger canisters.
While NSW Health is currently reviewing community submissions on potential reforms, Mr Griffin emphasised the need for urgency and called on the Minns Labor Government to expedite its report and act without delay to limit the availability of these dangerous products.
“Almost two years after the Government announced a planned crackdown and roundtable discussions on stricter enforcement, no meaningful action has been taken,” Mr Griffin said.
“The Government has stated that a summary report from the consultation is expected in early 2026, and that will inform any regulatory amendments. That is welcome, but I note that it will soon be April and we are yet to see a copy of that report.”
“Restricting access to large canisters is a practical, achievable step that would send a clear message and lead to tangible harm prevention.”
“I call on the Government to finalise its report and act urgently to reduce easy access to those dangerous products, rather than allowing further delays while young lives continue to be put at risk,” Mr Griffin said.
Last modified: March 19, 2026
