Article
March 11, 2026
Message from the Acting Executive Program Lead NBPU TIS, Mel Donohue
On Tuesday 24 February 2026, the NBPU TIS team attended the official launch of the Digital Repository for Tackling Indigenous Smoking (DR TIS) at the Ann Harding Conference Centre at the University of Canberra. The launch marked a significant milestone in the history of the program and one of Australia’s most successful public health initiatives. Led by our consortium partner, the University of Canberra, a dedicated team has worked tirelessly to bring this important archive to life.
The repository captures the 16 year journey of the Tackling Indigenous Smoking (TIS) Program, widely regarded as a world leading, community led intervention. It contains a detailed library of documents and resources dating back to the program’s inception in 2010, documenting innovative strategies, measurable outcomes and the strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership in tobacco control.
TIS is now nationally recognised as a program driving real progress in reducing smoking and vaping rates for our mob. Daily smoking rates for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples (18yrs+) were recorded by the ABS at 50% when the program began. We now see those rates reduced to 29% for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples (15yrs+). This success reflects the strength of Indigenous leadership and the unwavering commitment of teams working on the ground in communities across the country.
Throughout the day we heard from key voices in the TIS story. Speakers included Professor Tom Calma AO and Associate Professor Raglan Maddox, founders of the program, who reflected on the vision that helped catalyse the Repository and reinforced that TIS is not simply a program, but a movement grounded in self determination and equity. We also heard from representatives of the NBPU TIS Consortium Partners, finishing with an address from the Hon Bill Shorten. Associate Professor Penney Upton hosted the day, reflecting on her long standing involvement and passion for the program since its early days. It was also inspiring to see youth leaders take a central role in the celebration, reminding us that the future of this work is in strong hands.
The repository is accompanied by a striking artwork created by Richie Allen, Ngunnawal cultural leader, illustrating the evolution of TIS and key elements of the program. Richie welcomed guests to Ngunnawal Country and generously shared the meaning and significance behind each element of the artwork.
The NBPU TIS team from Ninti One felt both privileged to attend and immensely proud of the progress achieved. The launch celebrated more than a digital platform. It reflected a collective commitment to sustaining impact and continuing to drive transformative change through the Tackling Indigenous Smoking program. Together we rise up.
You can explore the Digital Repository here
Read the University of Canberra media story here
Mel Donohue
Acting Executive Program Lead NBPU TIS
