West Moreton Health is warning businesses ignoring Queensland’s smoking laws that they will get caught, while also encouraging those struggling with nicotine addition to seek support.
In a significant public health win, one company was fined $45,000 plus $2,250 in professional costs by the Ipswich Magistrates Court on 17 January 2025 for selling illicit tobacco and vapes, as well as breaching regulations on the display and advertising of smoking products.
Just days later, on 20 January 2025, another business that sold vapes, was fined $40,000 plus $250 in professional costs for unlawfully supplying nicotine, a hazardous poison.
These prosecutions reflect the critical role the West Moreton Public Health Unit plays in protecting the community by enforcing smoking laws and reducing access to harmful, unregulated products.
Doctor Kelly McGowan, Acting Executive Director for Preventive and Prisoner Health at West Moreton Health, said these illicit products pose serious health risks, particularly to young people.
“Many illegal vapes contain dangerously high levels of nicotine, toxic chemicals, and harmful additives,” Dr McGowan said.
“Exposure to these substances can cause lung damage, heart issues, and long-term addiction, risks that we are working hard to reduce.”
West Moreton has one of Queensland’s highest smoking rates, and many rely on illicit vapes to manage nicotine addiction.
“Quitting isn’t easy, but support is available. Talk to your GP, pharmacist, or call Quitline (13 78 48) for free help. Options like nicotine replacement therapy are available for those over 12,” Dr McGowan said.
“Young people can also seek confidential advice from school-based nurses at their state high school for guidance on vaping, smoking, and quitting support.”
The West Moreton Public Health Unit’s Environmental Health Officers are responsible for investigating complaints, monitoring businesses, and enforcing compliance to protect community health.
The prosecutions followed public complaints that led to formal investigations.
Queensland’s crackdown on illegal tobacco and vape sales tightened in September 2024, granting authorities the power to shut down businesses for up to six months if they continue selling illicit products or operate without a smoking product licence.
Under the new laws, retailers now face:
- Up to two years’ imprisonment
- Fines of up to $322,600 for individuals
- Fines of up to $1.6 million for corporations
The West Moreton Public Health Unit plays a critical role in reducing community exposure to harmful smoking products.
Their proactive approach ensures businesses comply with Queensland’s strict smoking laws to protect public health.
For more information on Queensland’s smoking laws, visit: https://www.qld.gov.au/health/staying-healthy/atods/smoking/laws.
If you or someone you know needs support to quit smoking or vaping, help is available. Speak to your GP, pharmacist, school based nurse or call Quitline 13 78 48 (13 QUIT) for free, confidential advice.
ENDS