Queensland Targets Illegal Vape Sales with Tougher Penalties

The state government plans to increase fines and disrupt supply chains to curb the underground market for illegal vapes and illicit tobacco.

Queensland Health Minister Tim Nicholls announced plans to impose higher fines on retailers selling illegal vapes, aiming to eliminate financial incentives for offenders.
Current on-the-spot fines are $3,200 for individuals and $10,000 for corporations, but these amounts are deemed insufficient to deter repeat offenders.
Approximately 350-400 stores are under surveillance, with many linked to criminal gangs profiting from illegal vape and tobacco sales.
Since the beginning of the financial year, authorities have seized 44,500 illegal vapes, 8.7 million illicit cigarettes, and 2.6 tonnes of loose tobacco in Queensland.
The crackdown follows federal reforms in October 2024 that restricted the sale of nicotine vapes to pharmacies, but state officials argue further measures are needed.