Six unlicensed tobacconists have been shut down by authorities as Queensland’s tough new tobacco laws are enforced for the first time.
The Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service (WBHHS) Public Health Unit seized over $1 million of illicit tobacco and vaping products and shut down six unlicensed tobacconists over five days in November.
Wayne Ingall, Director of Environmental Health, applauded his team for their hard work.
“Our team has done an amazing job tackling this issue head-on. These operations are about protecting our community from the serious health risks posed by unregulated products.”
Following initial raids in Bundaberg, in which three stores were shut down, further action was taken in Kepnock and Childers which saw $60,000 worth of illegal cigarettes and vapes removed from the market.
Debbie Carroll, Chief Executive of WBHHS, said this work sends a strong message that illegal tobacco sales won’t be tolerated.
“It’s a vital step towards reducing harm and improving community health.”
Under the new laws introduced in September, authorities have the power to close a business for up to six months if they continue to sell illicit tobacco or vape products or operate without a smoking product licence.
Penalties also increased, with retailers facing up to two years’ imprisonment and fines of up to $322,600 for an individual or $1.6 million for a corporation.
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