The Nationals have a plan to end Victoria’s illicit tobacco trade and the associated violence that continues to threaten communities right across the state.
The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien said it was clear that action was needed from the State Government to ensure the wave of firebombings is not able to continue or escalate.
“Over recent years Victorians have been subject to more than 100 tobacco-related firebombings with one of the most recent occurring just a few months ago in Orbost,” Mr O’Brien said.
“I have been contacted by concerned residents about the illegal sale of cigarettes and tobacco across Gippsland South and at the moment there is little that can be down other than reporting it to the local council’s environmental officer or providing a ‘tip-off’ to the Australian Federal Police.
“I am aware that the Wellington Shire spent over $10,000 prosecuting a case in 2017 for a small fine result.
“This is a growing problem that is not being adequately addressed by the Allan Labor Government.”
The Nationals and Liberals have released a plan and attempted to introduce legislation in Parliament that would have provided for:
- The introduction of a licensing scheme for the sale of tobacco products.
- Implementation of a fit and proper person test to ensure suitability to hold a tobacco retail licence.
- Creating search and seizure laws for Victorian Police relating to tobacco products.
- Penalties for first time offenders of up to 5000 penalty units – the equivalent of $1 million.
- Penalties for second and subsequent offences of up to two years in prison.
Mr O’Brien said the Allan Labor Government failed to support the legislation despite acknowledging the need for a licensing scheme.
“Communities right across the state are being terrorised and our local police are powerless to help. The Nationals’ plan would introduce a strong, effective licensing system to protect our communities and put a stop to this violence.
“Labor can’t manage crime and Gippsland communities are paying the price.”