Arabic version: ليبراليو فيكتوريا يقترحون تشديد إغلاقات متاجر التبغ غير المشروع

According to ABC News, Victoria’s opposition has unveiled a plan to target the illicit tobacco and vape trade, which it says has been linked to arson attacks at 300 Victorian businesses and homes.

The Liberals say they would extend short-term closure orders for businesses found selling illegal tobacco from 90 days to 150 days if they win the upcoming election. The party said the change would align Victoria with stronger closure provisions in South Australia.

The Victorian government introduced 90-day short-term closure orders in September. Under the opposition’s proposal, landlords could terminate a tenant’s lease without compensation once a short-term closure order had been issued.

Other proposed measures include banning ATMs at retailers found selling illicit tobacco or operating without a licence, and allowing authorised officers to seize all tobacco and e-cigarette products where breaches are identified. The party also wants selling illicit tobacco to become a specific offence under its proposed Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organisations laws.

Liberal leader Jess Wilson said current government measures had not stopped the trade. She said a government she led would give authorities powers to shut illegal operations down and keep them shut. In September, new laws gave inspectors and police the power to close businesses found selling illegal tobacco products.