While similar regulations are already in effect in other regions of Australia, Victoria is preparing to introduce what could become the country’s most stringent tobacco laws, specifically targeting local tobacco retailers.
The new legislation aims to crack down on retailers who support organized crime networks linked to over 200 arson attacks and two murders within the state.
Under these proposed laws, inspectors will have the authority to search tobacco retailers and mandate their closure for up to 90 days if they are found selling illegal tobacco products.
Additionally, landlords will gain the right to terminate leases for shops involved in selling these contraband goods. Courts will also possess the ability to enforce longer closures on offending retailers without any predetermined duration limits.
Individuals caught violating these laws could face penalties as severe as $370,000 in fines or up to 15 years in prison.
Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Enver Erdogan, emphasized, “Illegal tobacco is not a victimless crime.”
“We see the impact it’s having on organised crime networks, undermining legitimate businesses that follow the rules.”
The state government says the new laws will be introduced before the November election.
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