Effective July 1, 2025, the Victorian Government has opened applications for its new Tobacco Licensing Scheme, aimed at curbing the illicit tobacco trade and disrupting organised crime networks.

Key Details for Businesses:

• Licensing Requirement: All tobacco retailers and wholesalers—including supermarkets, convenience stores, petrol stations, liquor outlets, and online sellers—must obtain a licence by February 2026, when enforcement begins.
• Application Process: Licences can be applied for via the Service Victoria app or website.
• Fees:
  • Initial licence (valid for 17 months): $1,176
  • Annual renewal: $830
• Compliance & Enforcement:
  • Selling illicit tobacco may result in fines up to $355,000 or 15 years imprisonment.
  • Businesses may face fines exceeding $1.7 million.
  • Licences will only be granted to individuals who pass a strict suitability test, with Victoria Police involved in vetting applicants.
  • 14 inspectors will be deployed to ensure compliance and assist law enforcement.

Government Investment:

The Victorian Budget 2025/26 has allocated $46 million to establish the licensing scheme and its regulator, Tobacco Licensing Victoria.

For more information and to apply for a licence through Service Victoria, visit vic.gov.au/apply-tobacco-licence.