Can You Vape in Australia

 
 
Australia has a tumultuous relationship with vaping, with its existing in a weird middle ground between illegal to buy and sell, but still legal to use.
 
Here’s our guide on the do’s and don’ts of vaping in Australia.

 
What can I Vape in Australia?


Under Australian law, it is illegal to buy, possess or use liquid nicotine for vaping without a prescription from a registered Australian medical practitioner. What this all means that even if you are from a country where vaping is legal, you would still require a prescription from an Australian medical practitioner in order to bring in a vape. Failure to do so can incur a fine of up to AU$ 220,000.
 
This is as nicotine under Australian law is classified as a medicine, making it only obtainable through pharmacies along with a prescription.

 
Travellers Exemptions

 
The law allows exemptions for users of nicotine free vape devices and liquids. Although there are some limits to the amount you can bring in, this consists of 2 Vape devices, 20 vape accessories (pods, coils, etc.) and 200ml of e-liquid.

 
Can you buy Vapes in Australia?

 
The short answer is yes, the long answer is complicated. Here’s our easiest explanation of what you can and cannot buy in Australia.
 
Disposables: Currently disposables in Australia are completely illegal, buy, selling or using one can lead to them being confiscated and you can be fined.
 
Nicotine Liquids: E-liquids that contain nicotine are heavily regulated in Australia, with them only being obtainable through pharmacies alongside a prescription from an Australian medical professional. The maximum strength available is 20mg, and the only flavours are mint, menthol and tobacco.
 
Nicotine Free Liquids: These liquids are the most commonly available in Australia. They are completely legal to buy and posses as long as they do not contain any nicotine. They can be sold in regular shops.
  


Airport Policies for Vaping in Australia

 
All airlines that operate in Australia follow the same rules regarding vape liquids and vape devices, with all of them being classified as “Dangerous Goods”. This is a blanket term that refers to any potentially dangerous devices, such as power banks, remote control cars, corrosive substances and pretty much anything containing batteries, removable or not.
 
What this means for travellers?
 
This all means that when travelling with a vape device, through Australian airlines or airports, they must be stored inside of you carry on hand luggage. If you need to vape at the airport, use the designated smoking areas.
 
Limits on amounts
 
You are allowed to bring; 200ml of e-liquids, 2 vape devices (disposable or refillable), 20 vaping accessories (pods, coils, etc.)