The State Government is continuing its crackdown on illegal tobacco retailers.
Under new laws passed in parliament this week, landlords in the Upper Hunter who knowingly rent to illegal tobacco stores will now be penalised.
The new offence carries a maximum penalty of one year imprisonment, a fine of $165,000, or both.
The Government have also added 30 new inspectors state-wide to ensure compliance.
Health Minister Ryan Park says the new laws are designed to help communities.
“Landlords who intentionally allow tenants to sell illicit tobacco and illegal vapes are not only undermining legitimate business operations, but they are exposing their community to associated criminal activities,” he said.
“This legislation builds on our extensive efforts to crack down on illegal tobacco and vapes across the state, and with a bolstered workforce, we are prepared to tackle this problem head on.
“The former Coalition government failed to implement a tobacco licensing scheme and left this state behind the ball. We’re getting on with the job of cleaning up our communities and suburbs.
“We are sending a clear message to those people, including landlords, who are doing the wrong thing – sooner or later, we will come for you.”
