Leading national retail groups representing thousands of small, independent and family-owned businesses across Queensland have applauded the State Government’s crack-down on the sale of illicit tobacco.
The leaders of the Australian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS), the Master Grocers Australia (MGA), and the Australian Lottery and Newsagents Association (ALNA) said the QLD Government had listened to industry concerns and taken strong action.
Illicit tobacco now accounts for one in five tobacco products consumed in Australia, costing governments almost $4 billion a year in stolen taxes, and putting the health and welfare of all Australians at risk.
“The beefed-up legislation is clear recognition of the damage that illicit tobacco is inflicting on law abiding businesses, communities, and the Queensland economy,” AACS CEO Theo Foukkare said.
Mr Foukkare said the new legislation would overhaul Queensland’s tobacco laws and help to clamp down on the illicit vape black market behind the youth vaping crisis.
“Retailers will have to apply for a license to sell tobacco products – that’s something our members have been calling for.
“The license approval process will include a ‘fit and proper person test’, just like when a business applies for a liquor license.
“It’ll tighten access to tobacco, so that it is only available for adults to purchase from law abiding retailers who play by the rules.
“Without a strict licensing model – sales of illicit tobacco and dodgy vapes in Queensland have been out of control.
“The booming black market for illicit tobacco and dodgy vapes has robbed legitimate small businesses of income and the Queensland economy of the taxes avoided by renegade operators.
“Now authorised health officers and police – will finally have the authority to shut them down.
“It’s a very positive step in the right direction and one that we will continue to work with health authorities, police and the government to implement as soon as legislatively possible,” Mr Foukkare said.
Theo Foukkare – AACS – is available for interview on 0423 003 133.
Ben Kearney – ALNA – is available for interview on 0417 144 994
George Kovits – MGA – is available for interview on 0418329376
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