Hitting stores where it hurts

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Illegal sales of cigarettes and vapes has been steadily increasing in Australia and various criminal elements are making the most of the situation. More and more small stores are opening up under the guise of selling confectionery or stationery, but stashing quantities of vapes under the counter. These are readily available to anyone who asks for them. The big issue is that the government is missing out on a lot of revenue from duties and other taxes on such products. The authorities are saying their hands are tied by the current legislation but the government working to change the laws. Many of the stores selling illegal vapes also have licences to sell Lotto tickets. This is a lucrative source of income for them. However, if they are caught selling vapes, their Lotto licence will be cancelled. This will hit them where it hurts – in the pocket. At the moment, it is the government that is being hit where it hurts.