The Tasmanian Government has released draft legislation aimed at cracking down on the sale and supply of illegal tobacco, vapes and other smoking products.
Bridget Archer, Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, said the trade in illegal tobacco, e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches had risen significantly in recent years.
“The Tasmanian Government has begun consultation with key stakeholders and the community on new legislation that targets this illegal trade, while protecting businesses and consumers who are doing the right thing.”
She said the draft laws would introduce new offences, increase penalties, and give authorities powers to close businesses selling illegal products.
“This will help further protect the health and wellbeing of Tasmanians, making our tobacco enforcement activities some of the toughest in the country,” she said.
Last year, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Department of Health and Tasmania Police was established to strengthen enforcement efforts.
Felix Ellis, Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management, said the MOU had improved joint operations between Tobacco Control Officers and supporting agencies.
“Targeted operations supported by this MOU over the last two weeks have resulted in the seizure of 2.1 million cigarette sticks, 1,035 kilograms of loose tobacco, and 735 vapes; an estimated street value of $3.2 million dollars,” Ellis said.
He said the legislation would support officers on the ground and urged a national approach to public health and community safety.
The draft Public Health Amendment (Prohibited Tobacco and Other Products) Bill 2026 is open for public consultation until 6 March 2026 and is available on the Department of Health website.
The legislation forms part of a staged approach, with the next phase consolidating all smoking and nicotine laws under a single Smoking Product Act for Tasmania.
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