In a significant crackdown on the illegal vape market, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and WA Health have conducted a successful joint enforcement operation, with assistance from Australian Federal Police (AFP), resulting in the seizure of more than 60,000 allegedly illicit vapes valued at just under $1.9 million and $198,000 of infringement notices being issued to 10 retail businesses across Perth for unlawful vape supply.
This operation, which took place across Perth from 11 to 13 November 2024, followed an investigation of over 70 businesses by the TGA and WA Health, and included the execution of 4 TGA search warrants on retail and storage premises.
Intelligence provided by WA Health played a central role in identifying the targets of search warrant activities.
The operation demonstrates ongoing coordination between TGA officials and other state and territory and Commonwealth agencies, to enforce the Australian Government reforms under the Therapeutic Goods and Other Legislation Amendment (Vaping Reforms) Act 2024.
This new legislation restricts the sale of vaping goods to licensed Australian pharmacies, prohibits their availability in retail outlets such as tobacconists and convenience stores, and introduces stringent penalties for non-compliance.
Ongoing enforcement at the border is in collaboration with the Australian Border Force (ABF).
Since the start of 2024, the ABF and TGA have seized more than 7 million vaping products, with additional enforcement actions planned across the nation.
If you suspect any violations of these regulations, please report them through the TGA's compliance and enforcement hub at: www.tga.gov.au/how-we-regulate/compliance-and-enforcement-hub/report-breach.
To learn more about the regulatory requirements for vaping products, visit the TGA's dedicated vaping hub at: www.tga.gov.au/products/unapproved-therapeutic-goods/vaping-hub.
Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:
"This substantial seizure is another example of the ongoing work to disrupt the supply chain for unlawful vapes that threatens the well-being of our young people.
"To the individuals thinking they can circumvent our laws by illegally possessing or distributing vapes, you will be held responsible for your actions.
"I want to recognise the TGA and WA Health for their efforts in enforcing the vaping reform laws."
Quotes attributed to Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson:
"As a State Government we are doing everything we can to keep these nicotine and dangerous chemical containing products out of the hands of kids.
"This operation is a great result for all agencies involved and puts tobacconists and other retailers on notice.
"This is about protecting our community, particularly the younger generations, from the health harms caused by vaping.
"WA has increased its state-wide monitoring to enforce restrictions on the illegal sale of vapes and WA Health will be working closely with the TGA and other agencies on its compliance activities."
