Australia’s Tasmania Tables New Bill to Strengthen Crackdown on Illicit Tobacco and Vapes
Tasmania introduced a bill to increase penalties and enforcement against the sale of illicit tobacco and vaping products.Summary
The Tasmanian government has proposed the Public Health Amendment (Prohibited Tobacco and Other Products) Bill 2026, aiming to strengthen the crackdown on illicit tobacco and vaping products. The bill introduces new offenses for selling illicit vapes, significantly increases penalties for illegal tobacco and vape sales, and grants authorities powers to close businesses violating regulations. It also bans vending machine sales and visible displays of smoking products. Minister Bridget Archer emphasized the bill’s commitment to reducing smoking rates and protecting young people, while Minister Felix Ellis highlighted the need to prevent organized crime and tactics seen on the mainland. Both ministers stressed the need for a national approach to address the issue effectively.
(Source：2Firsts)
