Victoria shuts down shops selling illegal tobacco from today

Inspectors and police can now close shops selling illegal tobacco for up to 90 days, with closure notices posted publicly.

Why it mattersRetailers now face immediate enforcement and public listing, raising the cost of selling illegal tobacco. Consumers buying from illegal sources may face fakes and safety risks.

AustraliaVictorian shopkeepers selling illegal tobacco can lose their business with no notice. Smokers buying from illegal vendors risk counterfeit products.

✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 1 d ago

Next in today's edition

Man in sunglasses and woman in black walking together on street with other people visible

✓ The CourierPower & Policy

Jury shown footage of Stawell burnout that killed spectator

Bryce Dridan is 29 years old. He stands trial for culpable driving causing death. His ute hit teenager Trent DeZoete at a Stawell burnout in November 2023.

Why it mattersThis trial tests an important question. Where does legal responsibility lie when a death occurs during intentional high-risk driving at a public event.