ACT's illegal tobacco fines 20 times weaker than Queensland's
ACT's $1600 illegal tobacco fines are 20 times weaker than Queensland's $32,260, creating a safe haven.
The ACT is under pressure to strengthen its laws against illegal tobacco and ranks second-last nationally for enforcement. Industry professionals have called for rapid closure powers, higher fines and landlord penalties for tenants selling banned products.
Current on-the-spot fines of $1600 for individuals are much weaker than Queensland's $32,260. NSW offers seven years in prison for serious crimes.
In April, raids targeting six Canberra shops seized half a million cigarettes and about 26 kilograms of loose tobacco. The ACT government says it is working on additional changes.
The opposition says December's updated laws were only a baby step. The Australian Council on Smoking and Health warned the territory that without stronger penalties and enforcement tools, it is not playing tough.
Why it mattersWeak laws mean illegal tobacco stays cheap and easy to buy, undermining public health efforts and letting criminals profit.
