Volatile substance misuse

‘Volatile substances' refers to a range of products that produce chemical gases or fumes at room temperature which, when inhaled, may cause the person to feel intoxicated or 'high'. 

Volatile substance misuse (VSM) is an issue of concern because of the serious effects on the health and welfare of those engaging in it, ​and community concerns around risks to public safety. 

To support the policing response to VSM police have specific powers under the Police Powers and Responsibilities Act to seize potentially harmful things which the officer reasonably suspects will be misused, and in certain declared localities, specific powers to detain and transport persons affected by a potentially harmful thing to a place of safety where they can safely recover.

The Summary Offences Act also places obligations on retailers, including associated offences, in relation to the sale of potentially harmful things for misuse. Specific requirements also apply in relation to the sale and stocking of spray paints, including signage, storage and restrictions on sales to minors. 

Declared localities

• Mt Isa (PDF)
• Cairns (PDF)
• Townsville (PDF)
• Inner Brisbane (PDF)
• Logan (PDF)
• Caboolture (PDF)
• Rockhampton (PDF)
• Gracemere-Rockhampton (PDF)​

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