THE selling of illicit tobacco just got a whole lot more hazardous in Victoria with the passage of an updated and improved Tobacco Amendment Bill 2024.

Under the tougher provisions of the bill passed by State Parliament on Wednesday, November 27, individuals could be facing terms of imprisonment of 15 years or fines of up to $1.7 million for businesses.

“It creates a licensing regime which allows the regulator to take into consideration anything it thinks necessary to determine suitability, from intelligence collected by Victoria Police. It delivers strong enforcement powers to inspectors and police to stamp out illegal behaviour,” according to Melissa HORNE the Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation.

But the Liberals and Nationals are claiming the credit for toughening the bill and pushing it through the parliament.

Shadow Minister for Consumer Affairs, Tim McCurdy, said that the passage of the updated and improved Tobacco Amendment Bill 2024 was a win for the safety of Victorians who have been living in fear of being caught up in the tobacco wars.

“This is a victory for commonsense. The government has been forced to listen to the concerns of everyday Victorians, and as a result, we have been able to force them to act sooner,” Mr McCurdy said.

“Victorians simply cannot wait any longer for Premier Jacinta Allan to act while their shops burn to the ground, it is time for the government to meet this deadline and protect Victorians.

“As always, we look forward to engaging with stakeholders as details of the scheme come together.”