The NSW Government will introduce new laws from 1 July 2025 aimed at reducing the sale of illegal tobacco, including a mandatory licensing system for retailers and tougher penalties for non-compliance.
Under the reforms, businesses that sell tobacco will be required to obtain a retailing licence or face fines of up to $220,000 for corporations and $44,000 for individuals. NSW Health will contact retailers with an existing Retailer Identification Number (RIN) in 2025 with details on how to apply.
The changes also introduce significantly higher penalties for selling single cigarettes, products in packs smaller than 20, tobacco without health warnings, or using illegal packaging. Corporations could face fines of up to $770,000, while individuals may be fined up to $154,000.
Penalties for selling tobacco to minors have also increased. First-time offenders can be fined $22,000 (individuals) and $110,000 (corporations), with higher fines for repeat offences. Inspectors may also issue on-the-spot fines of up to $5,500.
The government has urged the public to report any illegal tobacco activity through the NSW Health website.
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