New legislation in South Australia could result in fines of up to $1.5 million for those illegally selling vapes to minors. This crackdown comes after dozens of boxes of vapes were seized by SA police.
The SA government has received over 100 tips from the public, leading to the identification of illegal vape sellers. Consumer Affairs Commissioner Martyn Campbell stated that the trade is concentrated in the northern suburbs of Adelaide.
Authorities are considering sting operations to target illegal vape merchants, with Campbell mentioning the possibility of sending minors to purchase vapes undercover. The state legislation aligns with new federal laws that restrict vapes to pharmacy sales only.
SA Minister for Health Chris Picton emphasized the strict penalties, calling them the highest in the country. Proposed changes also include banning cigarette vending machines in public areas, setting a minimum age of 18 to purchase vapes, and implementing smoke-free buffer zones around covered public transport areas.
Preventive Health SA Chief Executive Marina Bowshall believes these laws will reduce smoking rates and prevent youth use of e-cigarettes. The government aims to enact these measures by the year’s end.