Vaping

For free and confidential legal advice about vaping, contact us here. 

Vapes are used to smoke, and they are sometimes called e-cigarettes. They can come with or without nicotine. It is against the law to have a vape that has nicotine without a prescription in Western Australia. 

What does the law say about buying vapes?

In Western Australia, it is illegal to buy (or have) a vape with nicotine without a prescription from a doctor. People who are 18 or over can buy vapes that don’t contain nicotine. 

What does the law say about selling vapes?

In Western Australia, it is illegal to sell something that is designed to look like a tobacco product (even if it doesn’t contain tobacco). This includes vapes.

What can happen if I vape at school?

Vaping is banned in all public schools in Western Australia. This includes in school buildings, gardens, sports fields, car parks and within 5 metres of any entrance to school buildings. Public schools might also have other rules about vapes. 

Private schools can make their own rules about vaping at school.  

If you want to know what your school rules say, you can ask someone at your school (such as a teacher or principal) for a copy of your school rules, or have a look on your school’s website. 

If you break school rules, for example by vaping, taking vapes to school or giving vapes to another student, then the school can take disciplinary action.   

If you are in trouble for having or using a vape at school, you can contact us for advice here. You can also check out our pages on suspensions and expulsions. 

More information about vaping

If you are thinking of vaping, it’s really important to find out about the health risks so you can make an informed choice. You can find out more from the WA Government’s website, Healthy WA here. 

If you are feeling pressured to vape, or if there is anything else that is troubling you, you can contact the Kids Helpline for 24/7 free and confidential support. Their number is 1800 55 1800 and their website is here.  

If you want help to stop vaping, or if you have questions about vaping, you can talk to your doctor, a youth health service, or you can call the WA Quitline on 13 78 48. 

If you want legal help with a vaping problem, and you are under 25, you can contact us for free and confidential help here.