The Cook Government is defending the time it is taking to introduce tougher laws targeting the illicit tobacco and vape trade, despite a recent escalation in violent crime and arson incidents linked to the illegal market in Western Australia.
Government insists on due process as crime escalates
Senior Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson stated that while cabinet approved the drafting of stricter legislation last year, the process must be done correctly. The new laws, led by the Health Minister, are currently being drafted. Sanderson acknowledged the concerning rise in violent behaviour, particularly from larger-scale operators in the illicit tobacco sector.
"We’re absolutely focused on making sure that the police have the powers that they need to shut them down as quickly as possible," she said. However, she could not provide a specific timeline for when the legislation would be presented to Parliament, which next sits in mid-February.
Bunbury raids and arson underscore urgent threat
The defence of the government's pace comes amid direct action by police in the state's South West. On Tuesday morning, South West Police raided the Ram Smoke Accessories store in Bunbury, confiscating multiple boxes of tobacco products. Details of the seizure are still being confirmed.
This raid follows a major fire on Sunday morning at a separate Bunbury convenience store allegedly selling illegal vapes. The blaze caused extensive damage to that business and neighbouring beauty salon, Allure Beauty Co. WA Police’s serious and organised crime division is leading the arson investigation.
Allure Beauty Co owner, make-up artist Amy Howes, said her business was "completely annihilated," leaving her feeling "really, really angry." A fundraising campaign has been launched to help her recover ahead of the crucial summer wedding season.
Community fear and calls for immediate action
Neighbours of the raided Ram Smoke Accessories store now fear they could be next. Local business owners reported heavy traffic at the store seven days a week, a preference for cash transactions, and the presence of an on-site ATM. They observed young people, pensioners, and tradespeople as the main customers.
The community sentiment is clear: stricter penalties are needed, and stores found selling illegal products should be shut down completely. This mirrors actions already taken in other states like South Australia and Queensland, which have implemented laws with higher fines and greater police powers to close shops.
Shadow police minister Adam Hort criticised the government's delay. "Every other mainland State has moved to shut down illegal tobacco and vape stores, WA has not," he said. "That inaction has made our State a target for organised crime and small family businesses are paying the price."
In response, Minister Sanderson emphasised that WA must draft its own laws to suit unique local circumstances, stating, "We’ve prioritised the drafting and I hope to see them soon."
