Tobacco licensing

Why this is important

Tobacco smoking is one of the leading preventable causes of death and disease in Australia. The sale of illicit tobacco, such as products grown or produced illegally in Australia or imported without paying duties, has also been linked to organised crime. 

The Tobacco Amendment (Tobacco Retailer and Wholesaler Licensing Scheme) Act 2024 set up a new licensing scheme for tobacco sales in Victoria. From 1 July 2025, tobacco retailers and wholesalers must apply for a licence to sell tobacco products. There are also new offences and penalties for unlicensed or illicit tobacco activities. 

Tobacco Licensing Victoria, part of the Department of Justice and Community Safety, was set up to regulate the new scheme. It started enforcement and compliance activities on 1 February 2026.

There are an estimated 8,000 tobacco retailers operating in Victoria. Given this scale, it is important that Tobacco Licensing Victoria effectively implements the new licensing scheme to achieve its intended public health and law enforcement goals.

What we plan to examine

We plan to examine if Tobacco Licensing Victoria is enforcing compliance with the new tobacco licensing scheme.

Who we plan to examine

Tobacco Licensing Victoria (Department of Justice and Community Safety)