NSW Government Cracks Down on Illegal Vape Suppliers with Tougher Penalties

The New South Wales (NSW) Government has introduced stricter laws targeting suppliers of illegal vaping products. The new legislation significantly increases fines and prison sentences in an effort to curb the distribution of harmful vaping devices, particularly among young people.

Stricter Penalties for Illegal Vape Supply

Under the new measures, suppliers of illegal vapes now face:

• Fines of up to $1.54 million, a dramatic increase from the previous maximum of $1,650.
• Prison sentences of up to seven years, up from six months.

These changes bring NSW penalties in line with Commonwealth vaping offences, marking a decisive step in addressing the growing public health concern.

Ryan Park, the NSW Minister for Health, underscored the urgency of the issue.

“The prevalence of illegal vaping devices in our community, and in particular among our young people, is deeply concerning,” Park said. “We are making progress in removing these harmful devices from our streets, and these harsher penalties will bolster our efforts to target suppliers.”

New Offences for Retailers and Commercial Possession

The legislation also introduces additional offences:

• Possession of a commercial quantity of vaping products will now be punishable under law.
• Retailer possession of vaping products will also attract penalties.

These measures aim to disrupt both large-scale supply chains and smaller retail operations, making it harder for illegal vaping products to reach the public.

Enforcement Efforts Ramped Up

The tougher penalties follow a year of intensified enforcement by NSW Health. Over the past 12 months, authorities have seized more than 300,000 illegal vaping products, nearly double the 153,000 confiscated in the previous year.

To support these efforts, the government will recruit an additional 14 enforcement officers tasked with ensuring compliance with vaping and tobacco laws across the state.

Dr. Michelle Cretikos, Acting Chief Health Officer at NSW Health, emphasized the government’s commitment to public health.

“We are dedicated to removing as many illegal vapes as we can, particularly to stop them falling into the hands of young people,” Cretikos said.

Support for Those Quitting Vaping

While cracking down on illegal vape supply, the government is also encouraging individuals to seek help in quitting. Resources include:

• Quitline: Call 13 7848 for free support.
• icanquit.com.au: Online tools and advice for quitting smoking and vaping.
• GP consultations: Tailored guidance and support from healthcare providers.

A Generational Opportunity

Describing the legislative changes as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity,” Ryan Park expressed optimism about tackling the vaping crisis.

By aligning state laws with federal standards and enhancing enforcement, the NSW Government aims to reduce the availability of illegal vaping devices, protect public health, and dissuade young people from taking up the habit.