New laws have been introduced to clamp down on the sale of illicit tobacco products.
Police and Tobacco Licensing Victoria now have the power to issue shop closure notices for up to 90 days.
They will also be able apply to the Magistrates’ Court for longer-term closure orders.
Businesses that defy the orders will face fines of more than $2.4 million and up to 20 years’ imprisonment.
The new laws will also allow a landlord to terminate a lease because of a long-term closure order.
They will create consequences for landlords who knowingly permit the sale of illicit tobacco at premises they own.
These changes will also give authorities the power to destroy illicit tobacco before trial where appropriate.
This will reduce the hazards, burden and cost of storing large amounts of product.
