,"The New South Wales (NSW) Government has introduced the Public Health (Tobacco) Amendment (Landlord Offences) Bill 2025, creating a new offence for commercial landlords who knowingly permit tenants to sell illicit tobacco or illegal vaping products. Offenders will face penalties of up to one year in prison, fines of up to AUD 165,000, or both. The measure, announced by Health Minister, aims to strengthen accountability across the supply chain and close loopholes that allow illegal tobacco and vape sales to continue in leased premises. The legislation complements recent enforcement efforts under NSW’s broader crackdown on illicit tobacco and vaping, which have already led to over 1,200 inspections, the seizure of 11.8 million cigarettes, 2,000 kg of other tobacco products, and 170,000 illegal vapes worth nearly AUD 19 million. It follows stakeholder consultations with landlords, retailers, and health advocates, and builds on new offences carrying penalties of up to AUD 1.5 million and seven years’ imprisonment. Minister said the bill underscores landlords’ duty to act responsibly and helps prevent criminal activity from taking root in local communities."
Consumer News Region