Vape Use in Australia: Navigating the New Era of Regulation

Australia has emerged as one of the world’s most regulated markets for vaping products, implementing sweeping reforms that fundamentally reshape how Australians access nicotine vapes. For anyone considering vape use in Australia, understanding the current legal framework is essential.

A Regulatory Revolution about Vape Use in Australia

In 2024, Australia introduced landmark legislation transforming vaping products into therapeutic goods available primarily through pharmacies. This represents a dramatic departure from the approach taken in many other countries where vapes are sold alongside tobacco products in convenience stores and specialised vape shops.

The rationale behind these reforms is clear: protecting young people from nicotine dependence and the health harms associated with vaping. Health authorities have expressed particular concern about youth vaping, which the new laws aim to curb by restricting access and eliminating appealing flavours and colourful packaging.

How to Access Vapes Legally

Since the reforms took effect, the pathway to legal vape access has become strictly defined:

Adults (18+) can purchase therapeutic vapes from participating pharmacies without a prescription, provided the product contains no more than 20mg/mL of nicotine. Before purchase, adults must consult with the pharmacist, who will discuss product suitability, dosage, and alternatives for smoking cessation. Purchases are limited to one month’s supply per month.

Minors (under 18) and anyone requiring nicotine concentrations exceeding 20mg/mL must obtain a prescription from a medical practitioner or nurse practitioner. Vapes with nicotine concentrations above 20mg/mL are available, but cannot exceed 50mg/mL, and remain strictly prescription-only.

Pharmacists are required to verify the identity and age of customers seeking Schedule 3 (over-the-counter) vapes and provide counselling on appropriate use, dosage, and alternative cessation supports.

Flavour Restrictions and Product Standards

One of the most significant changes is the restriction on flavours. Only mint, menthol, and tobacco flavours are permitted in therapeutic vapes. Prior to these reforms, fruit flavours dominated the market, with testing showing 78% of products had fruit flavour descriptors in their names.

This change aims to make vapes less appealing, particularly to younger users who have been drawn to sweet and fruity options.

Product Standards

All therapeutic vapes must comply with strict product standards (TGO 110), which limit the presence of eight toxic chemicals including diacetyl, diethylene glycol, and other potentially harmful substances. Products must also feature plain pharmaceutical packaging and child-resistant containers.

The Illicit Market Challenge

Despite these stringent regulations, a robust illicit market persists. Disposable vapes, including disguised cannabis vapes known as “penjamins,” remain available through illegal channels.

Authorities have responded with aggressive enforcement measures. Western Australia has introduced maximum penalties of $4.2 million for individuals and $21 million for companies, with potential prison terms of up to 15 years for possession of large commercial quantities of illegal vapes. Enforcement agencies also have powers to close suspected illegal stores for up to 90 days.

Importing Vapes Into Australia

Importing vapes into Australia is heavily restricted. Most vaping products are prohibited imports requiring a permit. Travellers arriving in Australia may bring limited quantities of tobacco (including vapes for personal use) under the duty-free allowance, but must declare any products above these limits.

For those importing vapes, a TGA prescription is typically required and packages are subject to inspection by the Australian Border Force. The ABF may hold parcels and request documentation including prescriptions, personal use declarations, and identification. Vape parcels are also subject to 10% Goods and Services Tax.

Cannabis Vapes and Vape Use in Australia

Recreational cannabis use remains illegal under federal law, and cannabis vapes are not available through the pharmacy framework. Medicinal cannabis is legal but requires a prescription from an authorised medical practitioner.

Practical Considerations for Users

For those considering vapes for smoking cessation, the pharmacy model provides a legitimate pathway. However, it’s worth noting that some major pharmacy chains have chosen not to stock vaping products, citing concerns about supplying addictive substances without clear medical need.

Support is available for those wanting to quit smoking or vaping through services like Quitline (13 7848) and other state-based cessation supports.

A System in Transition

Australia’s vape regulations continue to evolve. From 1 July 2025, additional requirements for devices, ingredients, packaging, and labelling came into full effect. The Therapeutic Goods Administration maintains a public list of notified products that comply with Australian standards, which users should consult when sourcing legitimate products.

While some critics worry the restrictions may drive users to the black market or back to combustible cigarettes, the government maintains these measures are essential for public health protection.

Understanding the legal landscape is essential for anyone considering vape use in Australia. The pharmacy model may offer less convenience than the previous retail model, but it represents the only legitimate pathway for obtaining regulated products that meet safety and quality standards. Click here to view our products