Nicotine pouches in Western Australia

Nicotine is a dangerous poison, even in small quantities, and its lawful manufacture, supply and possession is strictly regulated in Western Australia under the Medicines and Poisons Act 2014 (external site).

The Therapeutic Goods Administration has not evaluated any nicotine pouches for quality, safety or efficacy in Australia. Therefore, nicotine pouches are not listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods and are a Schedule 4 (prescription only) poison.

For more information see: Nicotine pouches | Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

Sale of nicotine pouches in Western Australia

Nicotine pouches cannot legally be sold in Western Australia except in limited circumstances as prescription medicine. Any person selling nicotine pouches without authority, either from physical premises or online, may be liable for offences under the Medicines and Poisons Act 2014 (external site) and the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989 (Cth) (external site).

In Western Australia, nicotine pouches are not permitted to be sold via general retail outlets, tobacconists or other stores, either from physical premises or online. 

The maximum penalty for a breach of the relevant provisions of the Medicines and Poisons Act 2014 is a $45,000 fine.

If you suspect someone is selling nicotine pouches, you can report it to the Department of Health by emailing tcc.report@health.wa.gov.au.