New laws planned to crack down on Victoria's tobacco wars

The Victorian government is planning to introduce new laws to try and extinguish Melbourne's tobacco war, which include powers to forcibly shut down dodgy retailers.

The laws already exist across other parts of Australia, and now Victorian tobacconists will be targeted, with the government vowing to introduce the toughest legislation the country has seen.

The proposed laws will target retailers facilitating organised crime gangs that are responsible for more than 200 firebombings and two alleged murders in the state.

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Under the tough new legislation, inspectors will be able to search retailers and force them to close for up to 90 days if caught selling illicit tobacco.

Landlords will also be given the power to terminate leases for stores caught selling the product, and courts will be able to impose longer store closures with no fixed limits.

Individuals caught will face fines of up to $370,000 or 15 years' jail.

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"Illegal tobacco is not a victimless crime," Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation Enver Erdogan said.

"We see the impact it's having on organised crime networks, undermining legitimate businesses that follow the rules."

The state government says the new laws will be introduced before the November election.

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