Queensland authorities have carried out the largest ever coordinated enforcement action against illicit tobacco and vape retailers in Australia, closing 148 stores across the state in just 10 days.

The statewide blitz, known as Operation Major, resulted in 13,320 days of total closure orders under new 90‑day powers introduced through the Tobacco and Other Smoking Products (Dismantling Illegal Trade) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025.

Officials say the operation seized more than $15.7 million worth of illegal products, including 11.8 million cigarettes, 1.7 tonnes of loose tobacco, 87,000 vapes, 4.2 litres of vaping liquid, and 270,000 nicotine pouches.

Health Minister Tim Nicholls credited the new legislation with giving enforcement agencies the authority to shut down illegal outlets without waiting for lengthy court processes.

“These tough new laws are stopping dangerous vapes and illegal tobacco from reaching Queensland kids,” Mr Nicholls said. “In just ten days, public health officers and police have acted decisively to dismantle organised networks operating in our towns.”

The new closure powers—allowing stores to be shut for three months—represent a major increase from previous legislation, which permitted far shorter penalties. Officials noted that under older laws, the same set of closures would have amounted to fewer than 450 days combined.

Police and Emergency Services Minister Dan Purdie said the joint operation between Queensland Health and the Queensland Police Service’s Taskforce Masher targeted criminal groups driving the illicit trade.

“This coordinated action has dealt a major blow to organised crime infiltrating Queensland communities,” Mr Purdie said. “We are sending a clear message that those selling harmful, illegal products to our kids will face tough consequences.”

The enforcement campaign follows growing concern about the rapid expansion of the black market for unregulated nicotine-based products across Australia.

Queensland residents can report breaches of tobacco and vaping laws through official Queensland Health complaint channels.