Western Australia's political landscape has ignited over the state's approach to tobacco and vaping, with Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas launching a direct attack on Premier Roger Cook. Zempilas has publicly demanded the Premier take immediate action to strengthen the state's tobacco control laws, framing the issue as a failure of leadership.
A Call to Action: "Do Your Job"
In a forceful statement, Basil Zempilas told Premier Roger Cook to "do your job" and urgently reform legislation to combat the growing public health crisis. The opposition leader's comments come amid rising community concern about the accessibility of vaping products and illegal tobacco, particularly to young people.
Zempilas criticised the government for what he perceives as a slow and inadequate response. He argues that while other jurisdictions are moving decisively, Western Australia is lagging behind, allowing the problem to escalate. The core of his demand is for the Cook government to introduce tougher laws without further delay, closing loopholes that he believes are being exploited.
The Rising Tide of Youth Vaping and Illegal Sales
The political pressure is fueled by alarming reports from health authorities and community groups. Data indicates a significant surge in vaping among teenagers and young adults, with easily accessible, flavoured e-cigarettes often containing high levels of nicotine.
Simultaneously, the illegal tobacco trade is reportedly flourishing, with illicit cigarettes sold from some retail outlets, undermining public health efforts and tax revenue. Zempilas contends that stronger enforcement and legislative power are needed to shut down these operations and protect young West Australians from addiction.
The opposition's stance highlights a critical gap in the state's current regulatory framework, which they believe is insufficient to deal with the modern challenges posed by new nicotine delivery products and organised crime in the tobacco sector.
Government Response and Political Repercussions
Premier Roger Cook and Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson have previously acknowledged the issues surrounding vaping and illegal tobacco. The government has signalled it is considering a range of reforms, potentially aligning with stricter measures being rolled out nationally.
However, Zempilas's aggressive call for immediate action is designed to put the government on the defensive. By accusing the Premier of not doing his job, the opposition is seeking to frame the issue as one of competence and urgency ahead of the next state election. This move turns public health policy into a central point of political contention.
The debate now centres on the timeline and scope of the government's proposed changes. Will Premier Cook accelerate his government's plans in response to this pressure, or will he dismiss the opposition's demands as political point-scoring? The health of WA's youth and the integrity of its tobacco control regime hang in the balance.
One thing is clear: the "tobacco war" in Western Australian politics has been declared, and the public will be watching to see which side delivers concrete action to address this pressing community issue.
