Victorian Liberals pledge to close illicit tobacco shops for 150 days
Opposition leader Jess Wilson announced plans to increase store closures. The closures would go from 90 to 150 days. The plan also adds new enforcement powers.
Victorian Liberal leader Jess Wilson announced a tougher crackdown on illegal tobacco. She will increase forced store closures from 90 to 150 days.
More than 300 businesses and homes have been firebombed in attacks linked to the illegal trade. Wilson's plan includes new powers to seize all tobacco and e-cigarette products.
It also allows landlords to end leases without compensation. It will ban retailers caught selling illegal tobacco from running ATMs.
The Liberals plan to make tobacco trafficking a specific crime under new RICO laws. Since Victoria's tobacco laws began in September, 100 stores have been closed.
Authorities seized more than 4 million illegal cigarettes and 70,000 vapes. They also seized 3 tonnes of tobacco and about $1 million in cash.
- 90 days
- Current closure period
- 150 days
- Proposed closure period
- 300+ businesses and homes
- Firebombings
- 100
- Stores closed since September
Why it mattersStronger enforcement measures could disrupt the illegal tobacco supply chain. It has fueled firebombing and extortion across Victoria.
AustraliaVictorian shopkeepers and property owners affected by illegal tobacco operations would face tougher rules if the Liberals win office; the crackdown aims to reduce firebombing attacks and criminal activity in Victoria.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 1 h ago
