Queensland’s tougher vape laws give landlords more power over illegal shops

Stronger laws planned by the Queensland Government to more effectively crack down on illicit tobacco and vape products have been welcomed by the shopping centre industry, which describes them as nation-leading and necessary to ensure community safety.

The Tobacco and Other Smoking Products (Dismantling Illegal Trade) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 was presented to Parliament this week, as part of the Crisafulli Government’s crackdown on criminal networks peddling illegal cigarettes, vapes and nicotine pouches to kids.

Among the changes, the amended bill will allow landlords to terminate the lease of a shop caught selling illicit tobacco or vapes if they are issued a closure order by Queensland Health.

According to the Shopping Centre Council of Australia (SCCA), the bill removes risks and ambiguity by allowing lease termination to occur efficiently, for instance by disapplying dispute, mediation and compensation provisions where illicit tobacco is involved.

“The new laws are strong, clear and will give landlords the backing and protections they need to terminate the leases for anyone found selling illicit tobacco and issued with a closure order,” said SCCA CEO Angus Nardi.

“We commend Health Minister Tim Nicholls for his engagement on these laws, which are nation-leading, common sense, and will have a real and positive impact on community safety.

“These laws will be a model for other jurisdictions, and we look forward to working with Minister Nicholls and the Government to help ensure their effective implementation,” Nardi added.

Other amendments include Queensland Health’s jurisdiction to shut down illegal businesses on the spot for three months (up from the previous 72 hours) and a fine of up to $161,300 for commercial landlords who knowingly permit illegal tobacco or activities.

Between last November and this August, Queensland Health seized more than 420,000 illegal vapes, 52.4 million illicit cigarettes and 7500kg of loose tobacco. Over 140 interim closure orders have been issued, and more than 3000 fines imposed.