Media release
Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne
Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne has welcomed the NSW Government's new licensing laws for tobacconists while renewing his call for development applications to be required for any new tobacconists to open.
In February 2024 Inner West Council resolved to seek new regulatory powers to enact changes including:
- Requiring all tobacconist and vape stores to submit a development application before opening
- Capping and reducing the total number of these outlets in NSW and the Inner West
- Limitations on the ability of these stores to open nearby to schools and places where children congregate
Mayor Byrne said, "We welcome the legislation the Minns Government has enacted to require licensing of Tobacconists and crack down on illegal sales of black market vapes and tobacco.
"But we also want new DA powers to stop the spread of these shops throughout our suburbs.
"A new bottle-shop requires a full development application and social impact assessment, but currently tobacconists can open and trade after receiving a license and filling in a few forms.
"Tobacconist and vape stores that target kids are spreading throughout every neighbourhood and main street and it's time they were stopped in their tracks.
"We are seeking the regulatory power to stop and reverse the spread of these businesses in our streets, especially those thoroughfares that kids use to travel to and from school.
"The enormous number of tobacconist and vape stores opening near primary and high schools poses a real threat to the health of children and must be curtailed.
