Freeze tobacco tax & allow vapes to fight illicit tobacco

Senator Tammy Tyrrell calls for tobacco excise freeze and vape regulation to address illegal tobacco trade and public health.

Senator Tammy Tyrrell, Independent Senator for Tasmania, responds to Peter Dutton’s refusal to commit to real solutions on illegal tobacco and declining tobacco excise revenue today.

“Right now people are paying $84 for a 40 pack of smokes and they’re struggling to access vapes. No wonder they’re turning to the black market. 

“Let’s freeze the tobacco excise for a year while cost of living pressures are still high. And then regulate vapes. Make them accessible the same way people buy smokes. That way adults who want or need vapes can use them and we’re putting money back into the budget for health measures.

“The Liberals were up in arms when Labor’s vape regulations passed last year. But will they keep their promise to overturn the laws? There's been crickets from them on this issue."

Senator Tyrrell is a reformed smoker and has loved ones who have used vapes to quit smoking. She says she'd be a hypocrite to say it’s okay for her loved ones to make the choice to vape for their health, but not okay for other people. Senator Tyrrell thinks adults should be able to make their own decisions about their health and what they consume.

Senator Tyrrell voted against Labor’s vaping regulation bill in the Senate last year. 

What else is news?

Everything Tam's been saying in front of journalists and their microphones.

Draft stadium bill a spear-tackle to Tasmanians
27 May 2025

Draft stadium bill a spear-tackle to Tasmanians

Tas Liberals stadium legislation is the equivalent of spear-tackling Tasmanians

Read more
Mateship at the heart of Anzac Day
Speeches 25 Apr 2025

Mateship at the heart of Anzac Day

Honouring the Anzac spirit, where mateship and sacrifice forge the heart of our community.

Read more
Tyrrell welcomes Greens support for Aldi campaign
Media Releases 10 Apr 2025

Tyrrell welcomes Greens support for Aldi campaign

From the challenges of public speaking to the power of a passionate voice, this is the story of a pivotal moment that shaped my commitment to representing Tasmania’s interests.

Read more