Queensland Cracks Down on Illicit Tobacco and Vaping: What Pharmacies Need to Know

The Queensland Government has taken another decisive step in the fight against illicit tobacco and vaping. As part of the state’s $33.1 billion Health Budget, $12.7 million has been allocated to strengthen enforcement against the illegal trade. This investment will see 43 new public health officers deployed across Queensland’s 11 public health units—boosting enforcement capacity by 25%.

What This Means for Pharmacies

For pharmacies, this crackdown underscores the importance of operating strictly within the legal and regulated supply chain. With authorities increasing inspections and enforcement, rogue traders will face greater risks of exposure, meaning patients will increasingly turn to legitimate, trusted providers for access to nicotine replacement therapies (NRT) and prescription-based vaping solutions.

By staying ahead of the regulatory landscape, pharmacies can position themselves as safe, compliant, and reliable sources of cessation support.

Why the Crackdown Matters

Illegal tobacco and vapes continue to undermine public health and erode confidence in smoking cessation efforts. Recent operations, such as Operation Appaloosa, revealed the scale of the black market:

• 76,000 vapes seized

• 19 million illicit cigarettes intercepted

• 3.6 tonnes of tobacco confiscated

• A total street value of more than $20.8 million

These figures illustrate the reach of the illicit market and the risks it poses—not just to community health, but also to pharmacies that are committed to providing safe, regulated alternatives.

Public Health Impact

Leading organisations have welcomed Queensland’s strengthened enforcement:

• Cancer Council Queensland emphasised that tobacco remains the leading cause of cancer in the state.

• The Heart Foundation highlighted the links between smoking, vaping, and increased cardiovascular risk.

• Lung Foundation Australia stressed the preventable burden of lung disease associated with both tobacco and vaping.

For pharmacies, these perspectives reinforce the responsibility to guide patients toward regulated, evidence-based therapies rather than leaving them vulnerable to black-market products.

The Role of Pharmacies Moving Forward

As enforcement increases, pharmacies have a unique opportunity to:

• Educate patients on the dangers of illicit tobacco and vaping products.

• Promote regulated solutions such as NRT and medically supervised nicotine vapes.

• Strengthen patient trust by ensuring compliance and offering up-to-date guidance on legal treatment options.

• Support community health outcomes by playing a proactive role in reducing smoking and vaping-related harm.

Key Takeaway

Queensland’s investment sends a clear message: the black market has no place in the state’s future. For pharmacies, this represents an opportunity to strengthen their role as frontline healthcare providers, ensuring patients have access to safe, legal, and effective smoking cessation tools.

By aligning with regulatory expectations and reinforcing patient trust, pharmacies can help reduce nicotine-related harm—while positioning themselves as leaders in responsible healthcare delivery.