A major enforcement operation led by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), in partnership with Queensland Health and the Queensland Police Service (QPS), has resulted in the seizure of more than $7 million worth of illicit products. The operation disrupted a major supply network allegedly responsible for distributing unlawful products through retail outlets and online channels.
Conducted on 3 and 4 November 2026, the operation involved the execution of search warrants at 14 storage sheds across multiple locations in Queensland. The operation resulted in substantial seizures of unlawful goods, with the TGA seizing more than 45,400 illicit vaping goods and 99,300 nicotine pouches. Queensland Health seized more than 5.4 million illicit cigarettes, over 1,160 kilograms of loose-leaf tobacco, and more than 1,100 paraphernalia items (pipes).
This coordinated action forms part of ongoing efforts under Australia’s National Vaping Enforcement Framework to strengthen compliance, protect public health and disrupt the criminal networks that profit from the supply of illicit products. Through joint enforcement activities, intelligence sharing and targeted operational responses, governments across Australia are continuing to dismantle illegal supply networks, remove harmful products from circulation and hold those involved accountable.
Chris Bedford, Acting Deputy Secretary of the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing and Head of the TGA, said “The continued cooperation between agencies and scale of these most recent seizures sends a clear message that governments across Australia are united in their efforts to combat the illicit market for vapes and tobacco.”
Dr Marianne Gale, Queensland Chief Health Officer, said “Large-scale seizures resulting from these joint operations are putting a significant dent in the illegal tobacco and vape trade in Queensland. It also sends a clear message that there is zero tolerance for this is in our communities and we have no intention of letting up on our hardline approach. Every illicit product we take off the streets is making a difference.”
Non‑compliance with the vaping provisions in the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989 can attract significant penalties, including imprisonment for up to 7 years, or fines of up to $2.55 million per offence for individuals and $25.5 million per offence for corporations.
The TGA encourages anyone with information about the illegal supply of vaping goods to report it via the TGA website at: Report a breach.
People seeking help to quit smoking or manage nicotine dependence should speak with their doctor, pharmacist or other healthcare practitioner about appropriate treatment options, including approved nicotine gum products registered on the ARTG. Support is also available through Quitline on 13 7848 (13 QUIT) or by downloading the My QuitBuddy app.
