MGA Independent Businesses Australia (MGA) has welcomed the Victorian Liberal Party’s commitment to strengthen laws targeting the illicit tobacco trade, saying further action is needed to protect legitimate retailers, their employees and local communities.
MGA recognises the Victorian Government’s efforts to address the issue through new legislation and enforcement powers. However, the ongoing impact on legitimate retailers highlights the need to go further.
MGA strongly supports the Opposition’s commitment to strengthen existing measures, including extending short-term closure orders from 90 to 150 days, and give authorities greater capacity to disrupt illegal operators and organised criminal networks.
MGA CEO Martin Stirling said independent retailers should not be left to bear the consequences of an illegal trade that undermines legitimate businesses and creates serious safety risks.
“Independent retailers invest in their businesses, comply with the law, employ local people and contribute to their communities. They should not have to compete with illegal operators who ignore the rules and put people’s safety at risk.
“We welcome stronger measures to tackle this problem, including tougher closure powers and action to prevent illegal operators from continuing to trade. However, legislation alone is not enough. There must be adequate funding and resources to ensure the laws are effectively enforced and illegal operations are shut down.”
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Media Release_MGA welcomes commitment to strengthen action on illicit tobacco
