Shoalhaven Mayor Patricia White is once again urging the NSW Government to crack down on the sale of illegal tobacco and vapes and expedite changes to state regulations that crack down on the industry.
Cr White said she is concerned by a recent spike in crime in the Shoalhaven community, including arson attacks, that appear to be linked to local tobacconists.
"My priority is to ensure residents feel safe in their neighbourhoods and villages," Cr White said.
"I was disappointed to learn of another suspicious fire at the Sanctuary Point shops this week and am concerned a pattern of this behaviour is beginning to emerge across the city," she said.
"I implore the NSW Government to act more swiftly to address the illegal tobacco trade to put an end to this senseless and dangerous behaviour that puts our community at risk," she said.
The NSW Upper House is currently holding an inquiry into the illegal tobacco trade in the state, with the committee exploring whether existing laws and enforcement efforts are adequately equipped to address the issue.
The committee is also examining links to organised crime, money laundering and the impact on local communities and businesses.
The Mayor's calls follow a resolution of Council on Tuesday 27 May this year, requesting that the NSW Government pursue changes to the planning system to allow greater control over where new tobacconist stores can operate, including the need for them to go through the formal development application (DA) process.
During the same meeting, Council also resolved to investigate whether there are any existing mechanisms to require DAs for tobacconist stores before they open in the Shoalhaven.
Additionally, Council requested the NSW and Australian governments increase compliance officers and resources dedicated to enforcement against illegal tobacco and vape sales and develop education campaigns to be run by local schools.
There are currently nine vape shops in the Nowra CBD.
Council first wrote to the NSW Government in May 2024 regarding illegal tobacco and vape sales, seeking greater controls and supporting the upcoming NSW parliamentary inquiry examining the illegal tobacco trade.
