Small-time cannabis users will soon face the risk of jail and hefty fines under new laws to come into effect in two weeks.

Just 10.1 grams of the drug, up from 30.1 grams, could incur criminal charges, including a maximum two years' jail and a $2000 fine, from August 1 in the government's toughening approach towards illegal drugs.

There will no longer be warnings, with a first offence immediately referred to court. In the past, an infringement notice was issued for anything up to 30 grams no matter how many times a person was caught.

Selling or promoting smoking paraphernalia will attract a $10,000 fine for individuals and imprisonment of up to two years. The penalty increases to $24,000 if sold to children.

Companies will be fined up to $50,000 for selling to adults and $120,000 for selling to children.