The latest illicit tobacco and vape crackdown in Mackay has seen big seizures and five unlicensed tobacconists shut down.
The Mackay Public Health Unit has confirmed that over the past three weeks, eight unlicensed tobacconists who were found selling illicit tobacco and vapes had stock seized, and five of these faced forced closures.
Under strict new laws, the stores were hit with on-the-spot fines, ordered to close for 72 hours and contraband was seized.
Seizures since March 20, include 39.7kg of loose tobacco, 1,620 illegal vapes, 132,941 illegal cigarettes, 475 bongs and 208 ice pipes.
Mackay Hospital and Health Service Director of Public Health Brigid Fenech said the raids follow new legislation that came into force in September 2024.
“This sends a clear message that illegal tobacco sales will not be tolerated in the community,” Ms Fenech said.
“Our public health officers will continue to be vigilant to ensure retailers of tobacco, vapes and other smoking products comply with the law.”
Under these powers, Queensland authorities can now enforce an on-the-spot 72-hour closure on a premises operators found to be repeat offenders of selling illicit products or operating without a smoking product licence.
Penalties have also increased, with retailers facing up to two years’ imprisonment and employees fined up to $32,260 if they are found to be working in a store supplying smoking products during the closure order period.
Penalty infringement notices will be issued with summons to appear in court for charges under the Tobacco and Other Smoking Products Act and the Medicines and Poisons Act.
