Victoria is set to introduce the toughest penalties in Australia for individuals and businesses found selling tobacco without a licence.
Under the state’s new tobacco licensing laws, individuals found selling illicit tobacco will face fines of more than $355,000 or up to 15 years in jail, while businesses will face fines of more than $1.7 million.
Victoria Police will also have their search powers increased, making it easier and quicker to raid, search, and seize illicit products from a retailer suspected of having links to organised crime.
Theo Foukkare, CEO of the Australian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS), said the licensing scheme would send a strong message to dodgy operators currently selling illicit tobacco products in Victoria that they must shut up shop.
“These laws must pass immediately to allow authorities to try and get on top of Victoria’s illicit tobacco war that continues to put the lives of innocent people at risk. We urgently call on all MPs to not only support the laws, but to help get them through parliament before the sitting year ends.”
The Bill will also establish a tobacco business licensing scheme – so tobacco can only be sold by licensed retailers, with licenses only available for “fit and proper” persons who pass a strict test.
“Up until now, anyone could sell tobacco in Victoria without a licence and not be held accountable for it, which we believe is a big contributing factor to the out-of-control tobacco turf war in Victoria.
“The ‘fit and proper person’ test is essential in guarding who can responsibly sell tobacco products and who can’t. People can be refused a licence based on their history and known associates,” said Foukkare.
A new tobacco regulator is also set to be established, with dedicated inspectors to hit the streets alongside Victoria Police.
Anthony Carbines, Minister for Police, said Victoria Police has been tireless in its work to disrupt and dismantle organised crime.
“These new search powers will give police new ways to crack down on crime lords and keep the community safe.”
To stay up to date on the latest industry headlines, sign up to the C&I e-newsletter.