Queensland, Australia launches a new initiative in the 2024-25 state budget to combat illegal tobacco and vape sales through increased public health enforcement.

In what is expected to significantly enhance law enforcement capabilities against illicit smoking products, Queensland’s government has announced funding for four key measures:

1. A hiring drive: To bolster operational capacity on the street level, 70 new full-time officers will be recruited specifically targeting this illegal trade
2. Increased penalties: The region currently ranks as having both the highest fines and most extensive search operations
3. New surveillance technologies: Deployment of advanced tracking systems to monitor cross-state supply networks
4. Community awareness campaigns: Educational programs designed to prevent youth access to these products
   Authorities anticipate that with additional funding, enforcement actions can be escalated from one side while reducing risks in society.

“This investment will more than double our capacity to patrol and enforce across the region through enhanced funding for existing compliance measures,” states Dr. Alistair Finch, Director of Law Enforcement Innovation

Such strengthened action represents a direct response to concerns about unregulated substances potentially impacting public wellbeing with serious consequences including community health challenges.