The Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) conducted an enforcement operation in Victoria, seizing over 15,000 vape devices and related accessories with a total value exceeding A$1 million (approximately US$670,000).
Key Points
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The Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration conducted an enforcement operation in Bendigo, Victoria.
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The operation involved two locations and was assisted by Victoria Police.
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Over 15,000 vape devices and related accessories were seized.
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The seized products have an estimated street value of over A$1 million (approximately US$670,000);
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The alleged offenses include illegal advertising and illegal supply of vape products.
Enforcement Operation in Bendigo
December 24, 2025 – According to a statement released by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). The TGA conducted an enforcement operation targeting illegal vape products in Bendigo, Victoria, on December 18, seizing a large quantity of unlawful vape devices and related items at two locations.
Investigation Into Suspected Illegal Activities
The TGA stated that the operation stemmed from an investigation into a company suspected of illegally advertising, supplying, and manufacturing vape substances. The regulator had previously issued a warning letter to the company in 2025. Following the discovery of further suspected violations, the TGA executed a search warrant at the company’s retail premises.
Police-Assisted Searches and Product Seizures
With the assistance of Victoria Police, enforcement officers subsequently executed a second search warrant at the residence of the company’s director, seizing over 15,000 vape devices, as well as various vape accessories and items used in the preparation and production of vape substances. The estimated value of the confiscated products exceeds A$1 million (approximately US$670,000).
Legal Consequences Under Australian Law
Under current Australian regulations, all advertising of vape products is prohibited unless specifically authorized. Violations of the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989 regarding vapes may result in serious penalties. The TGA stated that individuals who violate the regulations face a maximum prison sentence of seven years and fines of up to A$2.31 million (approximately US$1.55 million); for corporate violations, each offense carries a maximum fine of A$23.1 million (approximately US$15.5 million).
Legal Supply Channels for Vape Products
The TGA emphasized that vape products can only be legally supplied through Australian pharmacies that meet TGA standards, for smoking cessation and nicotine dependence management. No retailers, including tobacco shops and convenience stores, are permitted to sell vape products.
