Queensland Introduces Hefty Fines to Combat Illegal Tobacco and Vapes
The Crisafulli Government in Queensland is taking a tough stance against the illegal tobacco and vape trade by introducing the nation’s highest fines for shop owners caught supplying or possessing these illicit products. As of today, illegal operators will face on-the-spot fines exceeding $30,000, a significant increase from the weak penalties under the previous Labor Government.
Under the new regulations, individuals caught selling illegal tobacco products will be fined $32,260, up from $3,226, while corporations will face a financial penalty of $161,300, a substantial increase from the previous $16,130. These changes also introduce fines for the commercial possession and supply of vapes and nicotine pouches, known as zyn, which were not penalized under the former Government.
In addition to the on-the-spot fines, court-ordered penalties of up to two years’ imprisonment and/or fines of up to $322,600 for individuals or $1.6 million for corporations remain available for more severe cases.
The Crisafulli Government’s crackdown on the illegal tobacco and vape trade comes in response to the tripling of vaping rates among Queensland high school students from 2017 to 2023 under Labor’s watch. Since taking office, the current government has seized more than 130,000 illegal vapes and eight million illegal cigarettes, demonstrating its commitment to tackling this issue.
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls emphasized the government’s determination to stamp out the black-market trade that flourished under Labor. “We promised a crackdown, and with these tougher penalties hitting illegal operators in the hip pocket, we are helping stop illegal vapes falling into the hands of our kids,” he said.
Attorney-General Deb Frecklington echoed these sentiments, stating that the nation-leading fines were necessary to address the significant risks to public health posed by businesses selling illicit tobacco and vaping goods.
As Queensland continues its fight against the illegal tobacco and vape trade, the Crisafulli Government’s tough new fines send a clear message that they are committed to protecting the health and well-being of their citizens, particularly children, from the dangers associated with these illicit products.
- Press release: Tough new fines to extinguish illegal tobacco and vapes
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