University of Tasmania researcher Mai Frandsen said the five-month trial had a strong community focus.

“A trial on incentives for smoking cessation with a broad community sample like this has not been seen before and certainly not one that has been led by communities,” Dr Frandsen said.

“The community base also provides the setting for a ‘social contract’ between participants and the businesses involved.

“Providing incentives is dealing with the problem, rather than waiting to act on the health repercussions later, often when it’s too late.”

Three pharmacies across Bicheno, Swansea, and Tribunna are running the program, with pharmacists responsible for recruiting community members for the trial. 

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They also provide weekly testing with a carbon monoxide monitor and hand out incentive vouchers when participants register smoke-free.

Swansea pharmacist Suzanne Hickey said the program presented an opportunity for many contemplating quitting smoking to take the next step.

“At the pharmacy we work with participants however they wish, be it information, product resources or just a chat,” she said.

“A weekly visit and low carbon monoxide reading results in a $50 voucher redeemable at various businesses and that incentive has kept some very focussed on succeeding week to week.

Residents of Bicheno, Swansea, or Triabunna over the age of 18 are eligible for the trial.

The trial began at Tribunna on July 2.