Tuesday, 30 April 2024

Prahran electorate

Sam HIBBINS (Prahran) (14:54): (596) My constituency question is to the Premier, and it has been submitted to me by Linda in Prahran, who is concerned about the number of tobacco and vape shops, particularly along Chapel Street and Commercial Road. She is concerned they are unlicensed and they are not checked by police or council to make sure they are not selling illegal product. Victoria has seen unprecedented levels of tobacco-related violence, arson attacks and illegal tobacco being sold and an increase in vaping, particularly amongst children, and all this has happened whilst Victoria has been the only jurisdiction in Australia without a tobacco licensing scheme. The Premier recently did announce a tobacco and vape retail licensing scheme. However, there was very little detail, so I ask: when will the government implement the licensing scheme in order to improve public health and safety?