New regulations have been implemented today, empowering inspectors and law enforcement to shut down businesses that are discovered to be selling illegal tobacco products. Under these new provisions introduced by the Victorian government, stores found to be in violation can face initial closures of up to 90 days, with the possibility of longer-term shutdowns pursued through legal action.
According to the government, the names of businesses receiving closure orders will be made public on Tobacco Licensing Victoria’s official website. A significant number of inspectors from Tobacco Licensing Victoria are set to conduct surprise inspections at various retail locations throughout the state.
Furthermore, officers from Victoria Police are also authorized to issue closure notices if they find illegal tobacco products being sold. These closure orders can last up to 90 days, although prolonged closures may be sought through the Magistrates’ Court.
Premier Ben Carroll emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating on ABC News Breakfast, “If you are engaged in the sale of illegal tobacco, be prepared for an inspector to arrive at any time, and anticipate a bright sign on your door indicating that your shop is closed. We are taking decisive action to eliminate these operations, starting today.”
Business owners who fail to comply with closure notices may face penalties of up to $2.5 million and potential imprisonment for up to 20 years. Public health organizations have expressed support for these new regulations, stating they will align Victoria more closely with other regions in Australia.
Recent research from Cancer Council Victoria revealed that 72% of adults in the state believe that shops selling illegal tobacco should be shut down immediately. Todd Harper, the chief executive of Cancer Council Victoria, urged the state government to adopt a “zero-tolerance approach” to the illegal tobacco trade, acknowledging that more work is needed in this area.
These new laws come amid ongoing discussions at the federal level regarding tobacco excise, with parties such as the Coalition and One Nation promising to significantly reduce the taxes on cigarettes if they come to power. The Coalition has proposed an 80% cut in excise, claiming it would eliminate the black market for illegal tobacco, while One Nation aims for a 75% reduction and a freeze on tax indexation for three years.
Both parties argue that high taxes have fueled the demand for illegal tobacco products. However, Premier Carroll has stated that the Victorian government will not endorse any proposals to decrease tobacco excise. He emphasized the need to invest more in public health initiatives rather than support the interests of tobacco companies like Philip Morris, citing previous experiences in Canada where lowering excise taxes resulted in a resurgence of the black market.
As the debate continues, opinions remain divided on the best methods to combat the black market for tobacco. While some believe that reducing excise could decrease the demand for illegal products, others contend that criminals would simply adjust their pricing strategies in response.
