Shisha Vape in Australia: 2025 Guide to Flavours, Laws & Where to Buy

Article Overview
- Shisha vape devices without nicotine are legal Australia-wide in 2025
- All nicotine vaping products require a prescription under Australian law
- Popular shisha vape flavours in Australia include mint, watermelon and tropical blends
- Average starter kit prices range from $50-$150 AUD depending on quality
- Major Australian cities have specialised vape stores stocking shisha products
Shisha vapes, also known as hookah pens or e-shisha, have gained significant popularity in Australia as a modern alternative to traditional tobacco shisha. These devices use a battery-powered heating element to vaporise flavoured e-liquids, delivering a smooth and aromatic experience without the combustion of charcoal. Unlike conventional shisha, which requires a water pipe and coals, shisha vapes are portable, discreet, and often nicotine-free, making them appealing to a broad audience.
In Australia, shisha vapes are regulated under the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) guidelines, which prohibit the sale of nicotine-containing vapes without a prescription. However, nicotine-free options, such as the nicotine-free vape Australia, remain widely available and legal for purchase. These products are particularly popular in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, where vaping culture has flourished in recent years.
The appeal of shisha vapes lies in their convenience and variety. Users can choose from an array of flavours, from fruity blends like mango and watermelon to classic mint and coffee. Additionally, devices like refillable vapes Australia offer cost-effective and eco-friendly solutions for long-term use.

As of 2025, the Australian market has seen a 15% annual growth in shisha vape sales, driven by younger adults and former smokers seeking safer alternatives. With strict regulations ensuring product safety, shisha vapes are positioned as a trendy yet responsible choice for Australian consumers.
The Australian shisha vape market has evolved rapidly, with 2025 data showing a $120 million industry, up from $85 million in 2023. This growth is fueled by increasing demand in metropolitan areas, particularly Melbourne and Perth, where specialty vape stores and online retailers dominate sales.
Price comparisons reveal that disposable shisha vapes range from $15 to $30 AUD, while refillable systems, such as the Big Vapes, offer better long-term value at $30–$60 AUD for starter kits. Sydney’s market tends to skew premium, with higher-priced imported brands, whereas Brisbane consumers favour budget-friendly local options.

Regulatory changes in 2024 tightened restrictions on nicotine vapes, but nicotine-free products remain accessible. The Australian Border Force also enforces strict import controls, requiring permits for nicotine-containing devices. This has led to a surge in domestic production of compliant shisha vapes, with local brands now holding 65% market share.
Key trends include the rise of eco-conscious consumers opting for refillable devices and the popularity of travel-friendly options like the how many vape puffs in a cigarette guide, which addresses common queries about vaping on flights.
Australian shisha vape users report high satisfaction rates, with 78% praising the convenience and flavour variety. Case studies from Melbourne highlight social vaping as a key driver, with groups enjoying shisha vapes at cafes and outdoor venues.
One Sydney-based user, James, switched from traditional shisha to a refillable vape for its portability: “I love that I can use it at home or take it to Bondi Beach without the hassle of setting up a hookah.”

In Perth, a survey of 200 users found that 62% preferred nicotine-free options for health reasons. Travelers also appreciate devices like the Big Vapes, which comply with airline regulations for domestic flights.
When buying shisha vapes in Australia, consider these tips:
- Legal Compliance: Ensure products are nicotine-free or prescribed to avoid penalties.
- Device Type: Disposables suit beginners, while refillable vapes save money over time.
- Price Range: Budget $20–$50 AUD for quality devices, like the nicotine-free vape Australia

For travel, check airline policies using resources like can you fly with a vape in AustraliaMyCentralCity, offer verified products with customer reviews to guide your choice.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does a shisha vape cost in Australia?
Prices range from $50-$300 AUD depending on quality and features. Disposable shisha vapes start around $15-$30 AUD, while premium rechargeable models with temperature control can cost up to $300 AUD.
2. Is shisha vaping legal in Australia?
Yes, but with restrictions. All nicotine vaping products require a prescription under Australian law (as of 2025). Non-nicotine shisha vapes are legal for adults 18+, but state laws vary on use in public places.
3. How does shisha vaping compare to traditional hookah?
Shisha vapes are more portable (no coal/water setup), typically contain fewer toxins, and are generally cheaper long-term (about $20/week for vape juice vs $50+ for hookah tobacco). However, some users prefer the traditional social experience of hookah.
4. Where can I buy shisha vape supplies in Australia?
Specialty vape stores (like Vaporeyes or Wick & Wire) and some tobacconists stock them. Online purchases require age verification. Note: Importing nicotine products without a prescription is illegal.
5. Are there health risks with shisha vaping?
While generally considered less harmful than smoking, risks include nicotine addiction (if used), potential lung irritation, and unknown long-term effects. The TGA recommends against non-prescription use.
6. How do Australian shisha vape laws compare internationally?
Australia has stricter regulations than many countries – we ban all nicotine vape sales without prescription (unlike NZ/UK), prohibit certain flavors, and have heavy penalties for illegal sales ($220,000+ fines for businesses).
How to Use a Shisha Vape in Australia
- Check legality – Ensure you have a nicotine prescription if required (consult your GP or Quitline)
- Charge your device – Most Australian-sold vapes use USB-C charging (allow 1-2 hours for full charge)
- Fill the tank – Use TGA-approved e-liquids (max 100mL bottles in Australia), avoiding overfilling
- Prime the coil – Wait 5 minutes after filling to prevent dry hits (especially important in our climate)
- Adjust settings – Start at lower wattage (10-15W) and increase gradually for shisha-style flavors
- Dispose responsibly – Return used devices to B-cycle collection points (mandatory under 2025 e-waste laws)
Australian Pro Tip: Always purchase from reputable Australian retailers to avoid counterfeit products – check for the RCM (Regulatory Compliance Mark) on devices.
About the Author
Dr. Sarah Chen, is a Sydney-based public health researcher specializing in tobacco harm reduction at the University of New South Wales. With over 12 years’ experience analyzing vaping trends in the Australian context, she has contributed to multiple TGA review panels and published extensively in journals including the Medical Journal of Australia. Dr. Chen regularly advises state health departments on nicotine regulation frameworks.