Thursday, 8 May 2025
The NSW Government has finally answered calls to launch a parliamentary inquiry into the fast-growing illegal tobacco trade.
Member for Northern Tablelands Brendan Moylan has been pushing for action on the expanding industry and questioned the lack of enforcement of vaping laws within NSW.
A parliamentary inquiry into illegal tobacco trade has been established and referred to the Legislative Council Committee on Justice and Communities.
Recent incidents highlight the severity of the illegal tobacco trade including a truck rollover near Grafton on Sunday where 2.5 tonnes of illegal tobacco were uncovered.
Mr Moylan said the number of illegal tobacconists operating has exploded and they pose a huge risk to community health and safety, particularly to the region’s youth.
“Data from NSW Health shows a huge rise in the number of tobacconists across NSW; from 14,500 four years ago to 19,500 today,” he said.
“These illegal operations particularly affect regional and rural areas, like the Northern Tablelands, where there are limited resources to conduct compliance checks and they are being sold to young people.
“Illegal tobacco trade has also been linked with an increase in crime across NSW.
“The inquiry will force the government to look at the impact of the tobacco trade on small businesses and communities and the failures to address the sale of illegal and counterfeit cigarettes.”
MEDIA: Electorate Office 6772 5552