Western Australia delays illicit tobacco legislation until 2027

The Cook Labor Government in Western Australia is facing criticism over delays in introducing a second tranche of legislation aimed at combating illicit tobacco. Health Minister Meredith Hammat has admitted that the laws will not be presented to Parliament until early 2027, despite previous assurances that they would be introduced in 2026.

Shadow Police Minister Adam Hort criticized the delay, noting that the government’s own Department of Health website still advertises the introduction of the laws for this year. The Opposition has previously proposed amendments to grant landlords greater powers to terminate leases held by illicit tobacco operators, a measure already implemented in Queensland.

The Australian Council on Smoking and Health released an “Illicit Tobacco Ladder” ranking Western Australia fourth out of eight states and territories. CEO Laura Hunter warned that while the state made progress with the first tranche of laws passed in March, it is being overtaken by jurisdictions like Queensland. The pending legislation is intended to tighten licensing, increase enforcement, and allow for business closures of up to 12 months.