Mr. Hort questions whether the newly appointed 'tobacco tsar', Superintendent Steve Post, will have the power to approve short-term closure orders under the proposed Tobacco Products Control Amendment Bill 2026. The Minister clarifies that closure order powers reside with the Director General of Health and the Minister for Health, with delegation options.

AnsweredQoN 56Legislative Assembly
Asked
24 February 2026
Portfolio
Health

QuestionView source ↗

Tobacco Products Control Amendment Bill 2026—Superintendent
Post
56. Mr Adam Hort to
the Minister for Health:
I refer to the
government's appointment of the tobacco tsar, Superintendent Steve Post, a
senior police officer with over 40 years experience leading complex operations
and tackling organised crime, to head up the crackdown on illegal tobacco.
(1) Does the minister's legislation give Superintendent
Post the power to approve short-term closure orders?
(2) If not, why not?

AnswerView source ↗

(1)–(2) �I thank the member for the
question. As the member knows, we are clear about who has the power to sign for
closure orders. Interim closure orders of 72 hours can be signed by the Director
General of Health. Interim short-term closure orders of up to 90 days can be
signed by the Minister for Health. That can be delegated to the Director General
of Health if the minister so chooses.

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