New legislation introducing tougher enforcement on illegal vape and tobacco sales in NSW has got the backing in principle of independent Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby. 

“The NSW Opposition’s Bill has yet to be released and I’ll have to see the draft to understand exactly what’s being proposed, but I back the intention of this legislation. It’s time to beef up enforcement, protect young people and clean up the retail environment,” said Ms Scruby.

“In Pittwater, we’ve seen vape shops opening within metres of schools and playgrounds, putting harmful products within reach of children, while criminal networks profit. Illegal vape and tobacco sales are not only endangering young people’s health, they are actively funding organised crime

“Illegal tobacco and vapes aren’t a grey area. They’re part of an underground trade that has been linked to violence, trafficking, and organised crime. The idea that this continues openly in our suburbs is unacceptable.”

“This is about community safety and criminal accountability, and I’d like to see stronger powers to shut down non-compliant retailers and see the NSW Government commit to serious enforcement.

“We’re cracking down harder on food safety than we are on illegal tobacco and vapes. If a restaurant serves unsafe food, it’s shut down. So why are businesses caught selling illegal products to kids allowed to keep trading?

“What matters is protecting the community. I am happy to support good legislation whether it comes from the government or opposition. The intention of this bill looks to be a step in the right direction.”

The proposed bill is expected to give authorities powers to shut down illegal shops, evict tenants and increase penalties for repeat offenders. 

Ms Scruby says she’d like to see stronger legislation that reflects community expectations and closes loopholes, including:

• Zoning restrictions to prevent vape shops operating near schools and childcare centres
• Mandatory licensing and a public register of all vape and tobacco retailers
• Dedicated enforcement officers assigned to coastal and suburban regions like the Northern Beaches
• Youth education programs and public health campaigns
• Annual public reporting on compliance activity, penalties, and youth vaping trends.

“It’s important to tackle this problem in a comprehensive way. We need to address it urgently, but we also need to do it properly,” she said.