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On 23 January 2026 the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), with support from Victoria Police, executed a search warrant at a pop‑up retail store in Inverloch, Victoria.
It is alleged that the Inverloch premises was selling illicit vapes to minors and supplying illicit tobacco products. As a result of the enforcement activity, TGA officers seized a range of unlawful vaping products.
Investigations remain ongoing, and the TGA will consider further regulatory action in relation to this matter. This operation sends a clear warning to any retailer targeting young people with illegal vaping products - such behaviour is unacceptable and will result in enforcement action.
Vaping products can only be lawfully supplied through Australian pharmacies to people aged 18 and over, for smoking cessation or the management of nicotine dependence, where clinically appropriate and where the products meet TGA standards.
It is illegal for any other retailer, including tobacconists and convenience stores, to sell any kind of vape. Non‑compliance with the vaping‑related provisions in the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989 can attract significant penalties, including imprisonment for up to 7 years and fines of up to $2.31 million for individuals and $23.1 million for corporations per offence. The TGA continues to prioritise activities that deter and disrupt the illicit supply of vapes and takes strong action, especially when young people are being targeted.
If you need support to quit smoking or vaping, speak with a health professional, call Quitline on 13 78 48 (13 QUIT), or download the My QuitBuddy App.
The Government has also invested in a range of supports including the Youth Vaping Education Campaign and the National Tobacco and E‑Cigarette Campaign, which aim to reduce smoking and vaping rates among priority and at‑risk groups, particularly young people. More information is available at www.health.gov.au/vaping.
Contact for members of the media:
- Email: news@health.gov.au
- Phone: 02 6289 7400
