Major Crackdown in Queensland: Nearly $9 Million in Illegal Vapes and Tobacco Seized
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A major joint operation in southeast Queensland has resulted in the seizure of almost $9 million worth of illegal vapes, cigarettes, and loose tobacco. The coordinated effort involved the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Queensland Health, and the Queensland Police Service, who targeted several locations suspected of storing and distributing unlawful products.
What Was Seized?
Authorities discovered large amounts of unregulated vaping and tobacco items, including:
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More than $3 million worth of illegal vapes, nicotine pouches, and vaping accessories seized by the TGA
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Over $5.8 million worth of illicit cigarettes and loose tobacco confiscated by Queensland Health
This was part of a broader effort to enforce both the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989 and Queensland’s strict tobacco laws.
Why These Raids Matter
The operation forms part of Australia’s National Vaping Enforcement Framework, a national strategy focused on:
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Disrupting illegal supply chains
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Preventing criminal networks from profiting
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Protecting young people from harmful, unregulated vaping products
Tracey Duffy, Acting Head of the TGA, emphasised the importance of these actions, highlighting the Government’s commitment to keeping dangerous products away from communities — especially young Australians.
Queensland’s Chief Health Officer, Dr Catherine McDougall, echoed this sentiment, noting that Queensland has some of the strictest laws in the country and that officials will continue to crack down on anyone supplying illicit tobacco or vaping products.
What the Law Says
In Australia, legal access to vaping products is tightly controlled:
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Vapes containing nicotine can only be supplied through Australian pharmacies
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They must be used for quitting smoking or managing nicotine dependence
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Retail stores — including tobacconists, vape shops, and convenience stores — cannot legally sell any vapes, even if someone has a prescription
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Advertising vaping products is banned unless specifically authorised
Breaking these laws carries heavy consequences. Individuals can face:
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Up to 7 years in prison
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Fines up to $2.31 million
For companies, penalties can reach $23.1 million per offence.
Ongoing National Action
Australia’s crackdown isn’t slowing down. Working closely with the Australian Border Force, the TGA continues to target illegal imports and local supply networks.
Since 1 January 2024, more than 13.6 million illegal vaping products — worth an estimated $684 million — have been seized before reaching the community.
Quit Hero’s Role
At Quit Hero, we support Australians on their journey to quit smoking and reduce nicotine harm. Operations like this highlight why it’s so important to use safe, regulated products when quitting. By staying informed and avoiding illegal vapes and tobacco, you protect your health and increase your chances of a successful quit journey.