November 21, 2025
Shops found illegally selling vapes or illicit tobacco can now be shut down for up to three months.
Member for Nanango, Attorney-General Deb Frecklington, said Queensland Health had been given expanded powers to seize stock, shut down stores and penalise offenders.
Under the strengthened laws, Queensland Health officers have the authority to seize all products found in stores trading illicit tobacco and vapes.
Landlords have also been given stronger powers to terminate leases when tenants are caught operating illegally.
It is now a criminal offence for commercial landlords to knowingly permit this activity, carrying significant fines and jail time.
“Our new laws introduce tougher penalties, longer store closures and powers to seize more stock than ever before,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“These criminal traders exploit our communities and target young people with dangerous vapes marketed using eye-catching graphics and colours.”
The illegal sale of vapes and tobacco across Australia has been linked by police to organised crime gangs.
