Tough new illegal tobacco laws have finally been adopted in Victoria after The Nationals and Liberals successfully fought to introduce licencing laws.
The laws that passed state parliament in late November will result in businesses selling illegal tobacco and vapes punished.
The Nationals’ Member for Eastern Victoria, Melina Bath who spoke in favour of bringing forward the start of the licensing scheme said it was an important win for the safety of all Victorians.
“Fire bombings on tobacco stores have dominated our news headlines for far too long, and eastern Victoria has not been immune to the acts of fear and intimidation.
“We have had three fire bombings in the Latrobe Valley and one ram raid in Wonthaggi connected with the tobacco wars since Christmas day last year and enough is enough.
“Our shopping strips must be protected and not allowed to become a flourishing field for criminal activity.
“The new laws which require all tobacco wholesalers and retailers to be licensed are commonsense and importantly help our police better manage Victoria’s illegal tobacco trade.”
Ms Bath criticised the Allan Labor Government for kicking the tin down the road when it came to introducing a licensing scheme in Victoria.
“Victoria police have been begging the Allan Government to legislate tobacco licensing for many months now – frustratingly it was first recommended to the state government over two years ago.
“It unacceptable for one shop to be burnt to the ground because of criminal turf wars, yet under Labor we have seen in excess of 100 fire bombings statewide which is clear evidence Victoria’s laws were massively inadequate.”
The amended tobacco legislation will come into effect in July, 2025.
