Australia regulates vapes as therapeutic goods, not as consumer products. That surprises many visitors — especially those used to buying vapes in convenience stores at home.
Vapes
- Vapes are sold only by participating pharmacies. Tobacconists, vape shops and convenience stores may not sell any vape, with or without nicotine
- Adults aged 18 and over may be able to buy vapes with nicotine of 20 mg/mL or less in a pharmacy without a prescription, where state law allows — with ID, a one-month supply limit, and only mint, menthol or tobacco flavours
- You cannot order vapes from overseas websites for personal use, even with a prescription
- Some states prohibit possessing nicotine vapes without a prescription
Bringing vapes with you
Travellers arriving by air or sea may bring up to 2 vapes, 20 accessories (cartridges, capsules or pods) and 200 mL of vape liquid. The TGA's wording is that they must be for use in the treatment of the traveller, or of someone they care for on the same flight or ship. Border Force officers can seize goods they suspect are unlawful imports.
Smoking
It is illegal to sell tobacco to anyone under 18. Smoking is banned in enclosed public places in every state and territory — public transport, offices, shopping centres, cinemas and airports among them. Rules for outdoor areas such as dining areas, beaches and playgrounds differ by state. Duty-free tobacco is limited; see the customs allowances page.
Alcohol
- You must be 18 or older to buy alcohol or to drink in a licensed venue
- Where you may drink outdoors is set by states and local councils — many public places are alcohol-free zones
- The drink-driving limit is a blood alcohol concentration of 0.05 — and zero for learner and provisional drivers
Source: TGA — Vapes: information for individuals
Source: Department of Health — Smoking and tobacco laws in Australia
Source: Department of Health — Alcohol laws in Australia
Common questions
Can I buy a vape at a convenience store in Australia?
No. Vapes may be sold only by participating pharmacies. It is illegal for other retailers to sell any vape.
How many vapes can I bring to Australia?
Up to 2 vapes, 20 accessories and 200 mL of liquid, for use in your own treatment or that of someone in your care travelling with you.
What is the drinking age in Australia?
18. You must be 18 or older to buy alcohol or drink in a licensed venue.
More on the eVisitor
Customs allowances
Adults may bring A$900 of general goods, 2.25 litres of alcohol and 25 grams of tobacco duty free. Above that, you must declare.
Driving
Each state sets its own rules: NSW allows up to 6 months on an overseas licence, the NT 3. Non-English licences need a translation or an IDP.
Bringing medicines
Up to 3 months' supply for your own use, in original packaging, with a prescription or doctor's letter — and declared. Some medicines are banned.
Emergency numbers
Call 000 for police, fire or ambulance; 112 works from mobiles. 911 is not redirected. Non-urgent police: 131 444. An interpreter is arranged if needed.
Phones and SIM cards
Activating an Australian prepaid SIM requires an ID check — a passport in your name is accepted. Check your phone works on Australian 4G/5G first.
Plugs and voltage
Australia uses a plug with two flat pins in an inverted V (Type I) and 230 V, 50 Hz. Check your charger's label before you plug in.