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Illegal Tobacco and Vape Sales Rampant in Perth Corner Shops, Sparking Calls for Tougher Penalties
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A concerning new report reveals that up to half of Perth’s corner shops are engaged in the illegal sale of tobacco and vapes, prompting urgent calls for western Australia’s government to overhaul its current penalty system. The findings, released by the Australian Council of Smoking and Health (ACOSH), highlight a widespread disregard for existing laws and a growing public health crisis.
Widespread Illegality Across Perth Suburbs
The ACOSH survey, conducted across 103 retail outlets in 56 Perth suburbs, found that the illicit trade is flourishing in a variety of businesses, including newsagents, delis, tobacconists, convenience stores, and even gift shops. According to ACOSH’s chief executive, laura Hunter, “Illegal tobacco and vapes are being sold in broad daylight – proudly displayed in glass cabinets and listed on laminated menus.” This brazen display indicates a lack of fear among retailers, fueled by what Hunter describes as “very few enforceable penalties.”
WA laws Deemed “Toothless” as Smoking Rates Rise
Western Australia stands alone in Australia as the only state that has not updated its legislation to address the surge in illegal tobacco and vape trading. ACOSH has labeled the state’s current laws as “toothless,” arguing they are insufficient to deter illegal activity.Currently, individuals breaching tobacco laws face fines of up to $10,000, while businesses risk penalties of up to $40,000 for a first offense.
The inadequacy of these penalties has also been voiced by law enforcement. Following a recent spate of violent attacks on smoke shops and growing concerns about potential “tobacco wars” in Western Australia, police Commissioner Col Blanch stated last month that the existing penalties are too low to effectively deter shop owners. He further indicated a desire for the authority to issue interim closure orders for offending businesses.
Government Response and Enforcement efforts
Despite criticism, Police minister Reece whitby defended the government’s approach during question time.He highlighted the meaningful enforcement efforts already underway, stating that the WA Department of Health has conducted over 1,600 inspections since January of this year. These inspections have resulted in the seizure of more than 190,000 vapes, 460,000 cigarettes, and over 85 kilograms of loose tobacco.
“western Australia wants to have the toughest and the best laws in the country in relation to this issue,” Whitby affirmed,adding that the government is actively reviewing legislation from other states to develop a more robust framework.
Reversing Trends in Smoking Prevalence
The urgency of the situation is underscored by recent data revealing a concerning trend in smoking rates within Western Australia. A Department of Health annual report released just days prior showed that smoking prevalence has increased over the past two years, rising from 10% to 12% of the population. This marks a significant reversal from the downward trajectory observed as 2018, when only 9% of Western Australians smoked. The Cancer Council of WA had previously predicted smoking rates would fall to 5% by 2028, a forecast now appearing increasingly unlikely.
The escalating problem of illegal tobacco and vape sales, coupled with rising smoking rates, presents a significant challenge to public health officials in Western Australia, demanding swift and decisive action from lawmakers.
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