The illicit tobacco trade is wreaking havoc on communities, and Western Australia is taking a stand. In a bold move, the WA government has announced the formation of a specialized taskforce under the Department of Health to tackle this growing issue head-on. But here's where it gets controversial: the plan involves recruiting retired and current police officers to join forces with health compliance teams, raising questions about resource allocation and priorities.
Leading this charge is WA Police Superintendent Steve Post, dubbed the 'illicit tobacco tzar.' His message to those involved in the illegal trade is stark: 'Get out while you can.' Superintendent Post vows to ramp up enforcement and compliance efforts, leveraging new laws to dismantle the networks of 'tobacco thugs' who have been linked to violent crimes, including arson attacks and drive-by shootings in Perth and regional areas.
And this is the part most people miss: While the initiative aims to protect public health and safety, it has sparked debate over whether pulling officers from front-line duties is the right approach. WA Police Union President Dave Flaherty calls the move 'ridiculous,' warning of existing vacancies in police stations and questioning who will fill the void. 'Who's answering the call if they keep taking people from the front line?' he asks.
The WA government is also drafting new laws to empower authorities to shut down stores selling illicit tobacco—a power already in place in Queensland, New South Wales, and South Australia. Police Minister Reece Whitby emphasizes the frustration of current limitations: 'We can fine someone, but we can't shut them down.' The new laws aim to change that, though their effectiveness remains a point of contention.
With $5 million allocated to fund the taskforce, Health Minister Meredith Hammat promises a 'significant uplift' in compliance efforts. However, the exact number of staff remains undisclosed to protect their confidentiality. Superintendent Post will play a key role in determining these numbers, but the lack of transparency has already raised eyebrows.
Here’s the burning question: Is this taskforce the solution to WA's illicit tobacco problem, or is it a misstep that could leave front-line policing stretched thin? Share your thoughts in the comments—we want to hear from you!
