New legislation in Victoria, Australia will tackle illicit trade by being stricter on retailers. Photo credit: Jeremy Mosley, Pexels.
The Victorian government is set to introduce the strictest penalties in Australia with new legislation aimed at tackling the illegal tobacco trade.
Under the proposed laws, the state will implement a tobacco licensing system for retailers, empower police with enhanced authority and resources to target illegal sellers, and create a dedicated tobacco regulator with specialized inspectors.
Anyone caught selling tobacco without a license could face fines of up to A$355,000 or up to 15 years in prison, while businesses found in violation could be fined as much as A$1.7 million.
Under the government's new scheme, tobacco sales will be restricted to licensed retailers only. Applicants for a tobacco license will undergo a "fit and proper persons" test, with approval contingent on their background and associations. Those with a concerning history or connections may be denied a license.
The government stated that this measure would exclude individuals with criminal affiliations and protect businesses from being undercut by criminal syndicates. A new tobacco regulator will oversee the scheme, ensuring enforcement and compliance with licensing requirements. The regulator will be granted the authority to conduct shop searches and seize illegal products. Additionally, police search powers will be broadened to facilitate faster and more efficient raids on retailers suspected of ties to organized crime.
Premier Jacinta Allan wants the new legislation passed by the end of the year.