MGA has taken the concerns of independent retailers directly to Tasmania’s Parliament, securing a valuable opportunity to influence proposed illicit tobacco legislation before it was finalised.
Earlier this year, MGA CEO Martin Stirling and Board President Grant Hinchcliffe met with members of Tasmania’s Upper House to discuss the growing impact of illicit tobacco on legitimate retailers and outline measures that could strengthen the proposed reforms.
The engagement followed MGA’s formal submission to the Public Health Amendment (Prohibited Tobacco and Other Products) Bill 2026, which supports the state’s efforts to combat illicit tobacco while recommending additional measures to strengthen enforcement and better protect lawful businesses.
Among the recommendations put forward by MGA were tougher penalties for commercial-scale offenders, greater accountability for landlords who knowingly facilitate illegal activity, stronger licensing consequences for repeat offenders, enhanced enforcement powers and measures to prevent offenders from simply reopening under a different guise.
In a significant win, the Tasmanian Parliament has now passed the Bill, strengthening the state’s response to illicit tobacco. The new laws introduce tougher offences and increased penalties for the sale and supply of illicit tobacco and vaping products, along with new powers to shut down businesses found to be selling illegal products.
While MGA welcomes the passage of the legislation as an important step forward, we will continue advocating for strong enforcement to ensure the new laws achieve their intended purpose and create a fairer trading environment for legitimate retailers.
By engaging directly with parliamentarians throughout the legislative process, MGA has ensured the voices of independent retailers were heard at a critical time.
Read MGA’s submission:
Public Health Amendment (Prohibited Tobacco and Other Products) Bill 2026 Submission
