Are Bongs Legal in Australia? The Complete 2026 State-by-State Guide (NSW, VIC, QLD, WA, SA & TAS)

Are bongs illegal in Australia? No, bongs are not illegal in Australia for tobacco and legal herbs but are for illegal substances. This guide will cover the 2026 regulations for NSW, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia and Tasmania. Please note that this information is for general information only and is not to be used as legal advice.

Below we have detailed the laws regarding bongs for sale in Australia for each state. Please note that the laws for bongs for sale in Australia will change in 2026 for NSW, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia and Tasmania, and the information below is only a guide and should not be used as legal advice in any situation.

Quick Answer: Are Bongs Illegal in Australia?

For most products sold as bongs in Australia, they are not prohibited; however, there are restrictions placed on most states and products. Most states allow the use of bongs for smoking tobacco as well as a number of other legal herbs. 

There are, however, restrictions on products promoted for use with illegal substances and are therefore classified as drug paraphernalia under the laws of each state. There are also restrictions placed on the retail display, advertising and sale of these types of products. Items that contravene these restrictions are considered to be prohibited and therefore illegal.

2026 State-by-State Guide

New South Wales (NSW)

Bongs for smoking tobacco and for use with legal herbal products are allowed to be purchased and used within Australia. For example in NSW the laws in relation to the sale of items classified as bongs is strict. These items can be sold but are to be displayed in such a way as to not draw attention to them. 

In addition products of this nature are to be purchased from reputable retailers. Possession of a bong with the intent to use it with illegal drugs will also attract penalties.

Victoria (VIC)

In Victoria you are generally allowed to purchase smoking related products such as bongs, providing you purchase them from a compliant retailer, and the bongs are not promoted for use with illegal drugs. As such most online retailers will describe their water pipes as being suitable for use with tobacco or herbs, rather than marijuana for example.

Queensland (QLD)

Similar to the laws regarding bongs in Queensland, the laws in Western Australia regarding the sale, supply and display of bongs across Australia are strict. There are however, some legal loopholes or defences that can be used, in relation to the intended use of the bong as well as the design of the bong. This is why you will often come across online retailers that are selling water pipes and other types of bongs that are designed for use with any number of herbal type smoking products.

Western Australia (WA)

The position of ownership of bongs as opposed to the commercial sale of bongs differs. Most retailers comply with all aspects of legislation and guidelines with respect to the display and advertising of bongs and other smoking accessories, within the retail outlet. However, many online stores are based throughout Australia, and consumers generally prefer to purchase online from retailers across Australia as well as receive other products from Australian online retailers. 

These businesses must also adhere to marketing guidelines in order to comply with legislation in respect to the advertising of bongs and other smoking accessories.

South Australia (SA)

In South Australia it is generally permitted to purchase and own smoking equipment such as bongs as long as you are purchasing from a retailer who complies with certain rules regarding the display and advertising of bongs for smoking. This means that they must not promote the use of the product for the illegal consumption of drugs.

Tasmania (TAS)

Tasmania, unlike some other states is still allowing the buying and owning of compliant products such as bongs. This is under the condition that they are being marketed and sold for the use of tobacco and legal herbal products and are not contravening any prohibited claims.

Why Do Retailers Use "For Tobacco or Legal Herbal Use Only"?

Most online stores that sell bongs do not refer to cannabis products on their website. This is because online stores are scrutinised by law as to how products are marketed and for what purpose the product is intended to be used. Stores that sell bongs typically will refer to them for use with tobacco or for legal herbal smoking.

Tips Before Buying

• Check your state's regulations before ordering.
• Purchase only from trusted Australian retailers.
• Read product descriptions carefully.
• Use in a responsible way & in compliance with terms of law.
• Also remember that even though bongs may be for legal consumption, they can be restricted in contravention of certain state laws, so it is always best to check before purchasing.

Final Thoughts

Are bongs illegal in Australia? The majority of states and territories have laws in relation to bongs and other smoking accessories, however, in the majority of cases bongs are legal for adults to purchase and use in Australia. This is a matter for each state and the laws can change over time. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with current laws regarding bongs in your state prior to purchasing and also to buy from reputable Australian online retailers.

FAQs

1. How often should I clean my glass bong?

To keep your glass bongs in the best condition to smoke it is advised to rinse out bongs after every use and thoroughly clean bongs every 1-2 weeks to prevent resin from building up and becoming difficult to remove in the long run.

2. Can I use boiling water to clean a glass bong?

Boiling water in a glass bong can cause cracking due to thermal shock. It is advised to clean glass bongs with warm water and a solution specifically designed for cleaning bongs.

3. How do I get resin out of a glass bong?

Use a cleaning solution and add in some coarse salt to remove any stubborn pieces of resin from the inside of your bongs. Simply put the salt and cleaning solution in the bong and gently shake until the solution has dispersed. Once dispersed, fill the bong with warm water and rinse until the water runs clear. For tough cleaning jobs, simply repeat the process until the bong has been cleaned to your satisfaction.

4. Is it safe to use salt to clean a glass bong?

Using coarse salt is safe for quality glass bongs and can be used to scrub away thick layers of resin from your bongs.