Tasmania passes tough illegal tobacco and vaping laws with $600k fines
Tasmania has enacted strict new laws to combat illegal tobacco and vaping, imposing fines over $600,000 and business closure powers.Summary
Tasmania has passed the Public Health Amendment (Prohibited Tobacco and Other Products) Bill 2026, introducing strict penalties to combat the illegal tobacco and vaping trade. The legislation, which received parliamentary approval on Thursday, allows for fines exceeding $600,000 and the power to shut down businesses selling banned products. Deputy Premier Guy Barnett highlighted the severe impact of the illicit trade, noting a roughly 60% drop in tobacco sales at legitimate retailers. He emphasized that enforcement will begin immediately with Tasmania Police and health inspectors. Barnett criticized the federal government for losing control over the importation of these products, calling for a national approach to public health and safety. The changes have been welcomed by industry representatives, including John Devine of the Tasmanian Independent Retailers and David Baxter of Baxter's IGA Supermarkets, who described the decline in sales as devastating and supported the government's tough stance.
(Source：Pulse Tasmania)
