The State Government must take action to set up a proper retail licencing scheme for the tobacco industry The Nationals Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad has told Parliament.
Ms Broad recently visited Eaglehawk where many residents and business owners are very concerned that a tobacconist and convenience store plans to open in the main street.
“Local residents are concerned about the safety of their community and have gathered together to sign a petition to send to the City of Greater Bendigo, but as these matters relate to a state responsibility, it is appropriate to bring it to the attention of the Premier,” Ms Broad said.
“The residents of Eaglehawk are not alone in their concerns; many are asking why the State Government is doing nothing to curb the criminal activity associated with the illegal tobacco trade.”
Ms Broad said more than 100 Victorian shops have been firebombed or destroyed, including a tobacco store in the Hargreaves Mall, right in the centre of Bendigo – opposite a children’s playground.
“In January this year a car rammed into the store, causing a fire and damage to nearby businesses.
“Ten months later, it should be a bustling busy shopping area, but these shops remain closed, including the menswear store next door.
“A parliamentary inquiry and report into the tobacco industry made a key recommendation – that every seller be required to hold a licence and face strict reporting rules.
“The illicit tobacco trade continues to grow, yet the Government has failed to take action to introduce legislation to address this issue.”
Ms Broad raised the issue in Parliament in January this year after the Bendigo incident.
“In March the Premier indicated that urgent action would be taken, but we are still waiting for legislation that requires traders to obtain a licence to operate and sell tobacco products. Currently Victoria is lagging behind other states, and a licence is not required.
“By failing to take action, the Allan Labor Government is permitting the chaos and crime to continue.
“The Government can’t manage money, can’t manage crime and Victorians are paying the price.”
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764 linda.barrow@parliament.vic.gov.au