THE Federal Govt has committed $188.5m over four years to the Australian Border Force to deliver a new compliance model in partnership with States and Territories to crack down on the importation of illegal tobacco.
From 01 Jan this year, nicotine vaping products have been only available through pharmacies and only for therapeutic reasons as determined by doctors and nurse practitioners.
"An estimated 50 people every day die in Australia of a smoking-related illness.
"Reducing availability of illicit tobacco is critical to tobacco control," said the Federal Health Minister Mark Butler.
"Along with our updated tobacco packaging and our world-leading vaping reforms, the Govt is acting to target the scourge of illicit tobacco by appointing Australia's first illegal tobacco and vape commissioner," added Butler.
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