Lotterywest terminates agreements with dodgy Perth retailers caught peddling illegal vapes and cigarettes

Dodgy newsagents and retailers busted peddling illegal vapes and cigarettes have been stripped of their agreements to sell lottery products in a zero-tolerance crackdown on the rampant black market. Lotterywest has confirmed that it has torn up agreements with seven stores in the Perth metropolitan area tied up in the illicit trade. “These stores are no longer able to sell Lotterywest games,” a spokesperson said. “Retailers, who are part of the Lotterywest network, are required to adhere to a retailer agreement, which includes abiding by the law. “Lotterywest continues to work with retailers across the State to ensure the integrity of its retail network, aligned with community expectation and our core purpose of supporting community-led grassroots initiatives.” As the responsible minister for Lotterywest, the Premier said he expected stringent oversight ensure retailers were complying with their agreements. “This is a strong message to all retailers they must comply with the law, with an increase expected next year in visits,” Mr Cook said. “Lotterywest has taken swift action by using their existing powers to crackdown on illegal activity.” The termination is a devastating blow to the businesses involved and should serve as a warning to others, according to the Australian Council on Smoking and Health’s chief executive Laura Hunter. “We applaud Lotterywest for stepping up. This shows what can be done immediately while we wait for the broader reforms,” Ms Hunter said. “There are retailers all over Western Australia selling deadly and addictive products in broad daylight.” A recent audit by ACOSH of 103 retail outlets, including newsagents, convenience and gift stores across Perth, revealed widespread illegal tobacco and vape sales. Half of the businesses were caught red-handed. Ms Hunter said dodgy retailers were undermining decades of progress on controlling tobacco, fuelling organised crime, and making addictive products cheaper and easier to access - particularly for young people. “It’s positive to see agencies like Lotterywest taking proactive action to protect the community,” she said.