My constituency question is to the Premier, and it has been submitted to me by Linda in Prahran, who is concerned about the number of tobacco and vape shops, particularly along Chapel Street and Commercial Road. She is concerned they are unlicensed and they are not checked by police or council to make sure they are not selling illegal product. Victoria has seen unprecedented levels of tobacco-related violence, arson attacks and illegal tobacco being sold and an increase in vaping, particularly amongst children, and all this has happened whilst Victoria has been the only jurisdiction in Australia without a tobacco licensing scheme. The Premier recently did announce a tobacco and vape retail licensing scheme. However, there was very little detail, so I ask: when will the government implement the licensing scheme in order to improve public health and safety?
Response from the Premier
The Victorian Government is working with the Commonwealth Government to implement a national approach to e-cigarette reform.
This national approach will make e-cigarette and vaping products less accessible and appealing to young people and recreational vapers through tighter border controls, restricting flavours, colours and other ingredients, pharmaceutical like packaging, reduced nicotine concentration and volumes, and bans on all single use, disposable e-cigarettes.
The Government has already committed to introducing a new licensing scheme for tobacco retailers and wholesalers as part of wide-ranging reforms to combat the illicit tobacco trade, and we will be consulting widely with industry on the approach.
Community concerns regarding the illegal sale of illicit tobacco, e-cigarette products containing nicotine, or sale of tobacco or e-cigarettes to minors, should be reported to Victoria Police via Crimestoppers at https://www.crimestoppersvic.com.au/report-a-crime/ or calling 1800 333 000.
