The WA Department of Health has closed almost 50 stores since new laws came into effect, after completing the first major compliance operation under the Tobacco and Other Products Control Act 2006.
Operation Claudere, a two-week Department-led initiative, targeted the illegal sale of tobacco and vaping products across the Perth metropolitan area, with support from WA Police Force and the Australian Border Force.
Director of Tobacco and Vape Regulation Shane Giblett said the operation demonstrated the strengthened powers now available to disrupt the illicit tobacco and vaping market in Western Australia.
“Recent legislative reforms have significantly enhanced our ability to investigate and take enforcement action against non-compliant operators,” Mr Giblett said.
The operation resulted in the seizure of:
- more than one tonne of loose tobacco
- more than 5,400,000 cigarettes
- 51,505 vapes
- 386 vaping accessories
- 85kg of shisha
- 4,420 cigars
Mr Giblett said removing large quantities of illicit tobacco and vaping products from circulation helped reduce harm to the community, particularly for young people.
“This is ultimately about protecting public health, and every illicit tobacco and nicotine product removed from the market, is one less opportunity for addiction,” he said.
The Department will continue compliance and enforcement activities across Western Australia, with further action expected as investigations continue.
Members of the public are encouraged to report suspected illegal tobacco or nicotine sales via the Department of Health website.
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