Shops selling illegal tobacco in Victoria face closure from today

Shops in Victoria that sell illegal tobacco products will face closure starting today, following new laws enacted by the Victorian government. Businesses found to be in violation of the law could be closed for up to 90 days, with the possibility of pursuing long-term closures through the courts. The federal Coalition and One Nation parties have pledged to reduce the tobacco excise if elected, arguing that high taxes contribute to the illegal tobacco market.

Inspectors from Tobacco Licensing Victoria will be actively conducting spot checks of stores throughout the state, while Victoria Police officers can issue closure notices as well. Premier Ben Carroll warned that businesses selling illegal tobacco should expect an inspector at any moment, with the government committed to shutting down these establishments.

Those who ignore closure orders could face fines of up to $2.5 million and up to 20 years in jail. A Cancer Council Victoria survey found that 72% of adults in the state support shutting down shops immediately if they are found selling illegal tobacco. The new laws come as federal politicians debate over the tobacco excise, with both the Coalition and One Nation proposing significant reductions to the tax in an effort to eliminate the black market for illegal tobacco products.

Premier Carroll expressed that the Victorian government does not support lowering the excise and instead favors investing in public health.