In ongoing efforts to disrupt the illicit vape trade, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), assisted by Victoria Police, seized illicit vapes worth approximately $40,000, from a retail outlet in a highly prominent location in Melbourne's CBD. Victoria Police also seized illicit tobacco and cash.
The store allegedly advertised and supplied vaping products directly to the public, breaching the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989. The Australian Government's vaping reforms ban the importation, manufacture, supply, advertising, and possession of non-therapeutic vapes. It is unlawful for any retailer to supply any vaping good.
'These operations highlight how seriously the TGA, and other agencies, take complaints from the public and ensuring that unlawful activity is disrupted,' said TGA Head Professor Anthony Lawler. ''Ensuring that vapes are only legally available through pharmacies, alongside increased cessation supports, ensures that people can safely access therapeutic vapes to manage nicotine dependence and smoking.'
The TGA will keep working with state and territory authorities, including law enforcement, to target the illicit supply chain and protect vulnerable Australians, especially youth. Since January 2024, the TGA and Australian Border Force have seized over 10.7 million illegal vapes, worth $535 million, and issued more than $1.3 million in fines for unlawful vaping activities. Significant penalties apply for non-compliance, including fines of up to $2.31 million for individuals, $23.1 million for companies, or criminal charges with penalties up to $1.65 million - or 7-years imprisonment.
From 1 July 2024, all advertising of vapes is unlawful. Vapes can only be sold through pharmacies; tobacconists and convenience stores cannot supply them, even with a prescription. People seeking to manage nicotine dependence should talk to their health care practitioner or pharmacist for assistance and supporting, including to access therapeutic vapes.
The TGA encourages anyone with information about the unlawful sale of vaping goods to report it. To learn more about the regulation of vaping goods, visit the TGA's Vaping hub.
