NSW Landlords Face Jail Time Over Illegal Tobacco and Vape Sales
Sydney, NSW - New legislation in New South Wales will empower authorities to jail landlords who knowingly allow their properties to be used for the sale of illicit tobacco and vapes. The crackdown, announced today, aims to curb the booming black market fuelled by high tobacco excise and increasingly brazen retail operations.
The laws,a response to a surge in illegal tobacco activity reminiscent of the 1990s,represent a significant escalation in the state government’s efforts to combat the issue. Approximately 6,000 businesses have now obtained licenses under the new scheme, which came into effect on October 1st following a three-month grace period, up from around 4,500 initially. Despite the licensing program,some retailers continue to operate outside the law,prompting the government to target property owners as well.
NSW Premier chris Minns and Police Minister Yasmin Park have been vocal about the need for stronger measures. Park emphasized that even licensed businesses aren’t immune to scrutiny, stating, “Just as someone is licensed, you shouldn’t be complacent.”
The legislation comes as the NSW government continues to pressure the federal government to lower tobacco excise,arguing it is the primary driver of the illegal market. Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers has dismissed these calls, stating he doesn’t believe lowering cigarette prices is the solution. Minns has described the excise as the “leading reason” for the resurgence of illegal tobacco sales, with reports of public gatherings outside office buildings and sporting events for illicit smoking.
The new laws will allow for penalties including imprisonment for landlords found to be knowingly facilitating the sale of illegal products. Authorities have not yet specified the length of potential jail sentences.The legislation is expected to be fully implemented in the coming weeks, with increased enforcement efforts planned across the state.
