The New South Wales (NSW) Government has announced significant new measures to combat illicit tobacco and vaping sales, a move welcomed by Cancer Council NSW. The introduction of the Public Health (Tobacco) Amendment (Landlord Offences) Bill 2025 aims to deter landlords from knowingly allowing tenants to sell illegal tobacco and vaping products from their properties.
Under the new legislation, landlords who permit these illegal activities will face severe penalties, including a maximum of one year in prison or a fine of up to $165,000, or both. This law targets landlords who are aware of tenants engaging in the illicit sale of tobacco and vaping goods but fail to take appropriate action, such as notifying authorities or evicting the tenants.
Strengthening Tobacco Control Strategies
Anita Dessaix, Director of Cancer Prevention and Advocacy at Cancer Council NSW, emphasized the importance of this legislative change. “This is a critical moment to strengthen and enforce comprehensive tobacco retailing laws and reinforce broader NSW tobacco control strategies,” she stated. According to Dessaix, approximately two-thirds of smokers express a desire to quit, and these new measures are designed to foster conditions that support their efforts.
NSW has made notable progress in reducing smoking rates. In 2003, over 20% of adults in the state smoked either daily or occasionally; this figure has now decreased to 11%. Despite this progress, smoking remains the number one cause of preventable death in NSW, responsible for around 6,600 fatalities annually due to diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and lung disease.
Comprehensive Approach Needed
Dessaix highlighted that a multifaceted strategy is essential for effectively addressing tobacco use. “A combination of well-funded public education campaigns about the health risks of smoking, effective quitting support, coordinated enforcement, and strong smoke-free policies, along with this new licensing legislation, can help NSW reach the 5% smoking target by 2030,” she explained.
The harmful effects of tobacco smoke are well-documented, containing thousands of toxic chemicals, many of which are carcinogenic. Additionally, second-hand smoke poses serious health risks to non-smokers. Residents concerned about potential violations by tobacco retailers can verify if a business holds a valid retail or wholesale tobacco licence by visiting the Tobacco Licence Registry on Verify NSW.
As NSW continues to tackle smoking and its consequences, the introduction of the Public Health (Tobacco) Amendment (Landlord Offences) Bill 2025 marks a significant step forward in the ongoing fight against illicit tobacco and vaping sales, reflecting a commitment to public health and safety across the state.
