Latest news with #StatePenaltiesEnforcementRegistry
The Advertiser
3 days ago
- Business
- The Advertiser
Cash, cars and contraband: tobacco raids target shops
A fake wall full of cash has been found along with a secret tobacco store in a crackdown on illegal traders. Almost $500,000 in cash and assets including a top of the range Mercedes has been seized after Queensland launched raids on the tobacco black market. Raids were carried out on more than 20 stores across the state's southeast after the shops were fined for selling illegal tobacco but failed to pay the penalties. During one raid, police officers found the shop owner was trying to hide cash behind a fake wall in the back of their store. Another was operating a hidden tobacco shop at the rear of their retail store. Officers have seized $468,000 in cash and other assets, including a Mercedes AMG and an SUV, during the raids since early May. "Our officers will continue to ensure these debtors face consequences by seizing their cash and other property until these debts are paid," State Penalties Enforcement Registry director Kim Easton said. It comes months after a Queensland Health operation seized more than 76,000 vapes, 19 million illicit cigarettes and 3.6 tonnes of loose illicit tobacco. The haul had an estimated street value of $20.8 million. Queensland introduced nation-leading fines for retail store operators who sold illegal tobacco and vapes in April. Individuals can be fined $32,260, up from $3226, and corporations can be slapped with $161,300, up from $16,130. It follows laws introduced in September, enabling authorities to close offending businesses for up to six months - a penalty no other state has introduced. Treasurer David Janetzki said a number of stores had chosen to close permanently due to the recent enforcement actions. "We'll continue to support SPER and other agencies so they can use their full powers under the law to prevent chop shops from selling illegal tobacco and vapes, particularly to young Queenslanders," he said. Illegal tobacco sales have prompted violence in southern states, with more than 100 firebombings in Victoria in two years, while seven men have been arrested across Sydney over the theft of illegal cigarettes and chop-chop, or loose tobacco, in the past year. It is believed the attacks and thefts are a result of ongoing wars between criminal gangs over illegal tobacco profits. A fake wall full of cash has been found along with a secret tobacco store in a crackdown on illegal traders. Almost $500,000 in cash and assets including a top of the range Mercedes has been seized after Queensland launched raids on the tobacco black market. Raids were carried out on more than 20 stores across the state's southeast after the shops were fined for selling illegal tobacco but failed to pay the penalties. During one raid, police officers found the shop owner was trying to hide cash behind a fake wall in the back of their store. Another was operating a hidden tobacco shop at the rear of their retail store. Officers have seized $468,000 in cash and other assets, including a Mercedes AMG and an SUV, during the raids since early May. "Our officers will continue to ensure these debtors face consequences by seizing their cash and other property until these debts are paid," State Penalties Enforcement Registry director Kim Easton said. It comes months after a Queensland Health operation seized more than 76,000 vapes, 19 million illicit cigarettes and 3.6 tonnes of loose illicit tobacco. The haul had an estimated street value of $20.8 million. Queensland introduced nation-leading fines for retail store operators who sold illegal tobacco and vapes in April. Individuals can be fined $32,260, up from $3226, and corporations can be slapped with $161,300, up from $16,130. It follows laws introduced in September, enabling authorities to close offending businesses for up to six months - a penalty no other state has introduced. Treasurer David Janetzki said a number of stores had chosen to close permanently due to the recent enforcement actions. "We'll continue to support SPER and other agencies so they can use their full powers under the law to prevent chop shops from selling illegal tobacco and vapes, particularly to young Queenslanders," he said. Illegal tobacco sales have prompted violence in southern states, with more than 100 firebombings in Victoria in two years, while seven men have been arrested across Sydney over the theft of illegal cigarettes and chop-chop, or loose tobacco, in the past year. It is believed the attacks and thefts are a result of ongoing wars between criminal gangs over illegal tobacco profits. A fake wall full of cash has been found along with a secret tobacco store in a crackdown on illegal traders. Almost $500,000 in cash and assets including a top of the range Mercedes has been seized after Queensland launched raids on the tobacco black market. Raids were carried out on more than 20 stores across the state's southeast after the shops were fined for selling illegal tobacco but failed to pay the penalties. During one raid, police officers found the shop owner was trying to hide cash behind a fake wall in the back of their store. Another was operating a hidden tobacco shop at the rear of their retail store. Officers have seized $468,000 in cash and other assets, including a Mercedes AMG and an SUV, during the raids since early May. "Our officers will continue to ensure these debtors face consequences by seizing their cash and other property until these debts are paid," State Penalties Enforcement Registry director Kim Easton said. It comes months after a Queensland Health operation seized more than 76,000 vapes, 19 million illicit cigarettes and 3.6 tonnes of loose illicit tobacco. The haul had an estimated street value of $20.8 million. Queensland introduced nation-leading fines for retail store operators who sold illegal tobacco and vapes in April. Individuals can be fined $32,260, up from $3226, and corporations can be slapped with $161,300, up from $16,130. It follows laws introduced in September, enabling authorities to close offending businesses for up to six months - a penalty no other state has introduced. Treasurer David Janetzki said a number of stores had chosen to close permanently due to the recent enforcement actions. "We'll continue to support SPER and other agencies so they can use their full powers under the law to prevent chop shops from selling illegal tobacco and vapes, particularly to young Queenslanders," he said. Illegal tobacco sales have prompted violence in southern states, with more than 100 firebombings in Victoria in two years, while seven men have been arrested across Sydney over the theft of illegal cigarettes and chop-chop, or loose tobacco, in the past year. It is believed the attacks and thefts are a result of ongoing wars between criminal gangs over illegal tobacco profits. A fake wall full of cash has been found along with a secret tobacco store in a crackdown on illegal traders. Almost $500,000 in cash and assets including a top of the range Mercedes has been seized after Queensland launched raids on the tobacco black market. Raids were carried out on more than 20 stores across the state's southeast after the shops were fined for selling illegal tobacco but failed to pay the penalties. During one raid, police officers found the shop owner was trying to hide cash behind a fake wall in the back of their store. Another was operating a hidden tobacco shop at the rear of their retail store. Officers have seized $468,000 in cash and other assets, including a Mercedes AMG and an SUV, during the raids since early May. "Our officers will continue to ensure these debtors face consequences by seizing their cash and other property until these debts are paid," State Penalties Enforcement Registry director Kim Easton said. It comes months after a Queensland Health operation seized more than 76,000 vapes, 19 million illicit cigarettes and 3.6 tonnes of loose illicit tobacco. The haul had an estimated street value of $20.8 million. Queensland introduced nation-leading fines for retail store operators who sold illegal tobacco and vapes in April. Individuals can be fined $32,260, up from $3226, and corporations can be slapped with $161,300, up from $16,130. It follows laws introduced in September, enabling authorities to close offending businesses for up to six months - a penalty no other state has introduced. Treasurer David Janetzki said a number of stores had chosen to close permanently due to the recent enforcement actions. "We'll continue to support SPER and other agencies so they can use their full powers under the law to prevent chop shops from selling illegal tobacco and vapes, particularly to young Queenslanders," he said. Illegal tobacco sales have prompted violence in southern states, with more than 100 firebombings in Victoria in two years, while seven men have been arrested across Sydney over the theft of illegal cigarettes and chop-chop, or loose tobacco, in the past year. It is believed the attacks and thefts are a result of ongoing wars between criminal gangs over illegal tobacco profits.
Perth Now
3 days ago
- Business
- Perth Now
Cash, cars and contraband: tobacco raids target shops
A fake wall full of cash has been found along with a secret tobacco store in a crackdown on illegal traders. Almost $500,000 in cash and assets including a top of the range Mercedes has been seized after Queensland launched raids on the tobacco black market. Raids were carried out on more than 20 stores across the state's southeast after the shops were fined for selling illegal tobacco but failed to pay the penalties. During one raid, police officers found the shop owner was trying to hide cash behind a fake wall in the back of their store. Another was operating a hidden tobacco shop at the rear of their retail store. Officers have seized $468,000 in cash and other assets, including a Mercedes AMG and an SUV, during the raids since early May. "Our officers will continue to ensure these debtors face consequences by seizing their cash and other property until these debts are paid," State Penalties Enforcement Registry director Kim Easton said. It comes months after a Queensland Health operation seized more than 76,000 vapes, 19 million illicit cigarettes and 3.6 tonnes of loose illicit tobacco. The haul had an estimated street value of $20.8 million. Queensland introduced nation-leading fines for retail store operators who sold illegal tobacco and vapes in April. Individuals can be fined $32,260, up from $3226, and corporations can be slapped with $161,300, up from $16,130. It follows laws introduced in September, enabling authorities to close offending businesses for up to six months - a penalty no other state has introduced. Treasurer David Janetzki said a number of stores had chosen to close permanently due to the recent enforcement actions. "We'll continue to support SPER and other agencies so they can use their full powers under the law to prevent chop shops from selling illegal tobacco and vapes, particularly to young Queenslanders," he said. Illegal tobacco sales have prompted violence in southern states, with more than 100 firebombings in Victoria in two years, while seven men have been arrested across Sydney over the theft of illegal cigarettes and chop-chop, or loose tobacco, in the past year. It is believed the attacks and thefts are a result of ongoing wars between criminal gangs over illegal tobacco profits.
West Australian
3 days ago
- Business
- West Australian
Cash, cars and contraband: tobacco raids target shops
A fake wall full of cash has been found along with a secret tobacco store in a crackdown on illegal traders. Almost $500,000 in cash and assets including a top of the range Mercedes has been seized after Queensland launched raids on the tobacco black market. Raids were carried out on more than 20 stores across the state's southeast after the shops were fined for selling illegal tobacco but failed to pay the penalties. During one raid, police officers found the shop owner was trying to hide cash behind a fake wall in the back of their store. Another was operating a hidden tobacco shop at the rear of their retail store. Officers have seized $468,000 in cash and other assets, including a Mercedes AMG and an SUV, during the raids since early May. "Our officers will continue to ensure these debtors face consequences by seizing their cash and other property until these debts are paid," State Penalties Enforcement Registry director Kim Easton said. It comes months after a Queensland Health operation seized more than 76,000 vapes, 19 million illicit cigarettes and 3.6 tonnes of loose illicit tobacco. The haul had an estimated street value of $20.8 million. Queensland introduced nation-leading fines for retail store operators who sold illegal tobacco and vapes in April. Individuals can be fined $32,260, up from $3226, and corporations can be slapped with $161,300, up from $16,130. It follows laws introduced in September, enabling authorities to close offending businesses for up to six months - a penalty no other state has introduced. Treasurer David Janetzki said a number of stores had chosen to close permanently due to the recent enforcement actions. "We'll continue to support SPER and other agencies so they can use their full powers under the law to prevent chop shops from selling illegal tobacco and vapes, particularly to young Queenslanders," he said. Illegal tobacco sales have prompted violence in southern states, with more than 100 firebombings in Victoria in two years, while seven men have been arrested across Sydney over the theft of illegal cigarettes and chop-chop, or loose tobacco, in the past year. It is believed the attacks and thefts are a result of ongoing wars between criminal gangs over illegal tobacco profits.
Yahoo
01-04-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Drivers warned their cars and wages could be seized over $160 million in unpaid fines
Drivers in one Aussie state are being told to cough up or risk getting their wages and cars seized after it emerged a staggering $160 million in seatbelt and mobile phone fines remains unpaid. Queensland motorists have 28 days to pay a seatbelt fine. Failure to take action within this period results in the matter being referred to the State Penalties Enforcement Registry (SPER), which can then initiate strict enforcement measures. Data shared with Yahoo News Australia by SPER, a division of Queensland's Revenue Office, shows the number of unpaid fines has increased significantly from 28,210 in 2019 to 56,162 in 2024. In that time, the total balance owed surged from $9,076,430 to $50,957,449 — a more than a fivefold increase. The most dramatic spikes occurred between 2022 and 2024, with the balance rising from $13.8 million in mid-2022 to $50.9 million by the end of 2024. Speaking to Yahoo, a SPER spokesperson urged Queensland drivers to take fines seriously. "Seatbelts must be worn properly to avoid serious injury and save lives. Most people do the right thing and pay. However, if they don't, the unpaid fine is referred to SPER for collection," the spokesperson said. In the state, the penalty for not wearing a seatbelt is a $1,209 fine and four demerit points for both drivers and passengers aged 16 years or older – but it's about to go up to $1,250. Drivers are responsible for ensuring all passengers under 16 are properly restrained and may be fined for each unrestrained or incorrectly restrained passenger. In addition to the unpaid seatbelt fines data also shows unpaid mobile phone-related fines referred to SPER massively spiked in recent years, in both the number of debts and the total amount owed. More expensive road fines coming for millions Driver cops $322 fine in common road rule misconception Outrage over $500 fee, cars impounded for common act From 2019 to 2021, figures remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 19,963 and 22,434, with balances around $7.5 million to $9.7 million. But a major surge occurred between 2021 and 2022, with the number of debts skyrocketing from 20,754 to 85,390, and the total balance jumping almost tenfold from $9.7 million to $87.9 million. Unpaid mobile phone fines reached 102,623 by the end of 2024, and the outstanding balance swelled to $109.8 million. Like the seatbelt-related fines, these include handwritten and camera-detected fines and apply to Queensland, interstate and overseas action taken against drivers who refuse to pay their debt The spokesperson explained a whole range of enforcement measures could be taken if people actively avoid paying what they owe. "Where people continue to avoid paying their debt, SPER will take enforcement action, including seizure and sale of their vehicle or other property, suspending their driver licence, and garnisheeing their wages or bank accounts," they said. The spokesperson says enforcement action comes "at the end of a long process where people have had multiple opportunities" to deal with their debt. Those experiencing financial hardship were encouraged to reach out to discuss payment options. The high level of unpaid fines could indicate that current penalties are not effective in changing driver behaviour. If a significant number of people are failing to pay their seatbelt fines, it might suggest the financial penalty is not a strong enough deterrent. The sheer volume of unpaid fines could also be an indicator that many drivers simply cannot afford to pay, in the midst of the ongoing cost of living crisis. It has been argued penalties might disproportionately impact low-income individuals rather than effectively change behaviour. Yahoo has questioned the state's Transport and Main Roads (TMR) Department for their view on the matter. And while a spokesperson demonstrated a willingness to look into the query, no response had been received at the time of publishing. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@ You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
Yahoo
30-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
More expensive road fines coming for millions of Aussie drivers within months
Drivers caught breaking the law on the road will soon cop even heftier fines in one state as the country's harshest government is again set to increase penalties for motorists. Queensland's state government fines are scheduled to rise by 3.5 per cent starting next financial year, meaning anyone caught speeding up to 10 kilometres per hour over the speed limit will cop a $333 fine — a rise of $11 from last year. The increase will mean anyone caught wearing their seatbelt incorrectly or using their phone behind the wheel will face a $1,250 infringement, up $42. In 2024, the former Labor government hiked up infringements by 4.2 per cent for the 2024-25 financial year. While in 2023, they rose 7.7 per cent. The annual increase in state government fines in Queensland is tied to a default rate of 3.5 per cent to ensure penalties maintain their deterrent effect over time. By law, the government can only raise fines by the default rate unless Treasurer David Janetzki approves a different increase by the end of March. Janetzki confirmed fines will be capped at 3.5 per cent this coming financial year. The rate is built into legislation to provide a consistent and predictable framework for fine adjustments without requiring frequent government intervention. The Treasurer's decision, typically made before the end of March each year, takes into account factors such as cost-of-living pressures, revenue needs and the effectiveness of fines in promoting compliance with laws. "Any change will be applied in accordance with the process under the Penalties and Sentences Act 1992," a statement from Janetzki to the ABC read. Those who disobey stop signs or fail to give way to a pedestrian will face a $500 fine, increasing by $17 from the last financial year. Drivers who are travelling more than 40km/h over the speed limit will cop a massive $1,918 fine, increasing by $65 from current rates. Warning ahead of major change coming to Australian roads Surprise mobile speed camera trend amid increased monitoring Driver's bizarre number plate prompts $933 fine warning The increase in fines and forfeitures is anticipated to generate $912m in the 2025-26 budget, according to the report. Last year's budget had flagged revenue of $794m in the 2024-25 financial year, increasing from the $741m the year before. In 2021, the state government introduced advanced detection cameras across Queensland, which have led to a large increase in the number of infringements handed out to drivers. Prior to installing the hi-tech cameras – which target drivers using their phones and those not wearing seatbelts – the State Penalties Enforcement Registry was chasing $8.7m in unpaid fines. That figure has since jumped to $110m, with the SPER hunting down more than 100,000 unpaid fines. There is also approximately $51m worth of unpaid seatbelt-related fines on the books. Yahoo News Australia has contacted the Queensland Treasurer's office for comment. with NCA Newswire Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@ You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
