South Australia has become the first state in Australia to ban nicotine pouches under new legislation aimed at curbing the illicit tobacco and vape market.
The ban, which took effect today, places nicotine pouches under the same restrictions as illegal tobacco and e-cigarette products.
Under the new laws, nicotine pouches are now classified as prohibited products, with authorised officers empowered to seize them. Businesses found selling these products face fines of up to $1.5 million.
Chris Picton, Minister for Health and Wellbeing, said the government is taking action to prevent another nicotine-related public health issue.
“From today, nicotine pouches are banned in South Australia as part of our ongoing fight against the illicit tobacco and vape trade. This is about stopping the next dangerous nicotine trend taking hold of our kids.”
Health officials have raised concerns about the highly addictive nature of nicotine pouches, which deliver nicotine rapidly into the bloodstream. The pouches are often flavoured, marketed on social media, and seen as appealing to young people.
Consumer and Business Services (CBS) will oversee enforcement of the ban as part of its broader operations targeting illicit tobacco. The government has allocated $16 million to a taskforce dedicated to combating the illegal tobacco and vape trade, which has already seized over $12 million worth of illicit products since July 2024.
Andrea Michaels, Minister for Consumer and Business Affairs, highlighted that nicotine pouches have increasingly been found alongside illicit tobacco and vape products during enforcement raids.
“From today, Consumer and Business Services will have the power to seize these pouches and take action against those supplying these illicit products to our community.”
The ban is part of a broader crackdown on the illicit tobacco market, which includes increased penalties, a ban on vending machine tobacco sales, and stricter licensing requirements. The government has also launched a $2 million public awareness campaign to reduce smoking and vaping, running until June 2025.
Marina Bowshall, Chief Executive of Preventive Health SA, emphasised the importance of early intervention.
“Nicotine is a dangerous and highly addictive chemical, so it is important that we act now to prevent the illegal sale of nicotine pouches which are often marketed towards children and young people.”
To stay up to date on the latest industry headlines, sign up to the C&I e-newsletter.