The Western Australian government has announced a new $5 million specialist squad to combat the state's booming black market for tobacco and vapes, but has conceded it still lacks the legal power to shut down offending stores.
A 'Smoke Screen' or a Serious Step?
Premier Roger Cook unveiled the initiative on Sunday, January 18, 2026, flanked by Police Minister Reece Whitby, Health Minister Meredith Hammat, Police Commissioner Col Blanch, and the squad's newly appointed leader, Superintendent Steve Post.
The move follows sustained criticism that WA has failed to keep pace with eastern states, where laws allow for the immediate closure of retailers selling illicit products. This legislative gap is seen as fuelling a violent turf war, including firebombings, over the lucrative illegal trade.
Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas was quick to label the announcement a "smoke screen" after months of government inaction. He questioned why the necessary legislation wasn't introduced to parliament in 2025 if the issue was such a priority.
"Stop trying to talk tough. Start delivering the action that you've been promised," Mr Zempilas said. "We need this legislation. How many fire bombings is it going to take before the Premier steps forward, takes responsibility and does something about it?"
The Legal Limitation Frustrating Police
Police Minister Reece Whitby openly acknowledged the squad's current limitation. Until new laws are passed later this year, officers can issue fines but cannot force stores to close.
"This is one of the great frustrations we have at the moment, because we can fine someone, but we can't shut them down and those fines aren't great enough deterrent in any case," Mr Whitby admitted.
Premier Cook defended the timing, stating the new unit was a response to the growing complexity of the problem, which is now deeply invested in by organised crime. "So we need to make sure that we've got the public health officials and the police working closely together," he said.
Squad Composition and Immediate Action
The squad will involve a significant uplift for the Health Department's compliance team, recruiting retired police officers to bring investigative expertise. The government clarified that the recruitment drive would bring the team's staffing to approximately 40.
Health Minister Meredith Hammat said the inclusion of ex-police would improve cooperation with WA Police and investigative powers. She issued a direct warning to the public: "Don't buy illicit tobacco. Don't support those retail stores." She emphasised that avoiding tobacco tax was directly funding criminal activity.
Superintendent Steve Post confirmed the crackdown would begin immediately, with recruitment processes starting the very next day. "I will immediately be looking to recruit," Supt Post stated.
The government's strategy now hinges on two parallel tracks: standing up the new enforcement squad while racing to pass the legislative reforms that will give it the teeth to shut down illegal operators for good.
