New laws are set to be introduced to the Parliament of Western Australia this week, targeting the sale of illegal tobacco and vapes.
Under the proposed crackdown, retailers caught selling illicit products could face fines of up to 21 million dollars and 15 years in prison – replacing what the government says are laws that have been too lenient.
The reforms are aimed at curbing the growing black market and a rise in violent incidents linked to the underground trade.
Image: Image: Pexels/ Kseniya Korotkaya
Produced By: Fiona Bartholomaeus
Featured In Story: Jonine Jancey – Public Health Expert, Curtin University
First aired on The Wire, Monday 23 February 2026