Toy Store in Australia Allegedly Selling Vapes Displayed Alongside Candy and Toys

A toy store in Melbourne, Australia, has sparked public controversy after allegedly selling vaping devices and cigarettes alongside children’s toys and shoes. Under local law, retailers found selling cigarette products to minors can face fines of up to AUD 9,514.

Breaking news on September 5, according to Australian media outlet kidspot, a toy store in Melbourne, Australia, was allegedly selling vaping devices and cigarettes next to children’s toys and shoes, triggering public concern. Under local law, retailers found selling cigarette products to minors can face fines of up to AUD 9,514. 

A kidspot reporter visited a toy store in Melbourne whose listed products are mainly aimed at children, including games, toys, and collectibles. Its website features items such as Disney products, Winnie the Pooh toys, and children’s shoes.

However, beneath the store name on the front of the shop is a large neon sign that reads, “We sell cigarettes.” 

 “We sell tobacco” | Image source: kidspot 

Some internet users also shared another children’s toy store that sells vaping devices, with window advertisements promoting American candy, gifts, cigars, cigarettes, and vapes. The user believed that “a large number of stores selling vapes and toys are popping up across Melbourne.”

She said:

“This is a loophole that allows businesses to sell vapes alongside toys and children’s products, even though these vapes often contain illegal nicotine.” 

In the Australian state of Victoria, it is illegal for businesses other than pharmacies to sell nicotine-containing e-liquid vaping products or vapes. Retailers in Victoria do not need a license to sell cigarettes, but they must ensure that tobacco products are not sold to customers under 18.

If retailers are found selling cigarette products to minors, they may face fines of up to USD 9,514.

Reference:    【1】 Melbourne kid’s shop caught allegedly selling vapes AMOngst toys