The Public Health Amendment (Prohibited Tobacco and Other Products) Act 2026 introduces stronger penalties for prohibited smoking product offences, expanded enforcement powers, the ability to close premises involved in unlawful sales, and tighter controls on smoking product displays.
The reforms also include stronger protections for children and young people and improved information-gathering powers for enforcement officers.
Importantly, the Tasmanian Government states these reforms do not affect retailers who legally sell tobacco products. Instead, they are designed to disrupt organised illicit trade and protect compliant businesses from unfair competition.
MGA welcomes continued government action targeting illegal operators and will continue advocating for stronger enforcement measures across Australia.
