Lung Foundation Urges WA to Crack Down on Illicit Tobacco and Vapes
22 Jan 2026
Tobacco remains one of the leading preventable causes of death in Australia, yet inconsistent enforcement has allowed illegal tobacco and unauthorised vaping products to circulate widely. Without strong action, decades of progress in reducing smoking and lung disease could be undone.
Research shows vaping carries serious health risks, particularly for young people. Teens who use e-cigarettes are five times more likely to start smoking, increasing their risk of long-term nicotine addiction and lung disease. Despite current WA regulations, illegal products remain easily accessible, highlighting gaps in enforcement.
In a joint statement released in August, the Lung Foundation and other public health and community organisations urged the WA Government to:
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Ban the sale of unauthorised e-cigarettes to strengthen enforcement
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Prohibit advertising, promotion, and sponsorship of all e-cigarette products
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Extend vaping bans to all smoke-free areas
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Increase penalties and resources for compliance and enforcement
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Empower authorities to quickly remove harmful products and disrupt illicit supply chains
Other Australian states have shown that stronger enforcement can reduce illegal trade and protect communities. Coordinated, well-resourced action across all states and territories is needed to curb access to harmful products, especially among young people.
The Lung Foundation is also calling for tighter regulation of tobacco retail outlets and more investment in public education, prevention programs, and cessation support.
Australians who want to quit smoking or vaping can request a callback at quit.org.au/request-callback.
https://lungfoundation.com.au/
Source: Lung Foundation Australia
