The Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand (TSANZ) has welcomed the record $1.1 million fine and permanent closure order placed against a tobacconist in Hornsby, NSW found to have continued to sell illicit tobacco and vaping products following previous closure orders.
TSANZ has consistently advocated that tougher enforcement is necessary at the retail level to curtail the illicit tobacco, e-cigarette and nicotine products market.
TSANZ Chief Executive Officer Vincent So said the record fine should alleviate concerns that governments are powerless to act against illicit retailers.
“This action demonstrates that governments have the tools available to disrupt the illicit tobacco, e-cigarette and nicotine products trade when they are prepared to use them,” Mr So said.
“Congratulations are due to Minister for Health the Hon. Ryan Park MP and NSW Health for their enforcement and the NSW Parliament for giving Health the powers they need to do their job.”
TSANZ said the permanent closure and record fine for ignoring previous closure orders also highlights the importance of maintaining robust tobacco retail licensing schemes, strong retailer oversight and meaningful sanctions for businesses found selling illicit products.
The Society has previously called for stronger licensing requirements, enhanced suspension and closure powers, and limits on tobacco retailer density as part of a comprehensive approach to reducing both legal and illegal tobacco, e-cigarette and nicotine products sales.
“Recent data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare show the number of daily smokers has never been lower, yet tobacco retailers are ubiquitous. We need serious reforms to reduce the number and density of retailers and ensure those doing the wrong thing are held accountable,” Mr So said.
“Selling nicotine products should be treated as a privilege, not an entitlement.”
The Society noted that Australia continues to make substantial progress in reducing smoking prevalence, demonstrating the efficacy of Australia’s tobacco, e-cigarette and nicotine products control measures.
“The evidence is clear. Tobacco, e-cigarette and nicotine product control measures such as excise, plain packaging, smoke-free laws and quit support continue to reduce smoking rates,” Mr So said.
“We should not abandon policies that are preventing disease, disability and premature death simply because dodgy retailers are breaking the law.”
TSANZ called on Commonwealth, state and territory governments to continue strengthening enforcement efforts, improve coordination across agencies and ensure that public health remains at the centre of policy responses to the illicit tobacco, e-cigarette and nicotine products market.
About us:
The Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand (TSANZ) is the peak professional body representing more than 1,800 respiratory health professionals across medicine, nursing, allied health, and research. TSANZ provides evidence-based advice, delivers professional training, and supports research to improve outcomes in lung health across Australia and New Zealand.
