Burdekin Tobacco on Edwards Street, Ayr, has been temporarily closed as part of a state government crackdown on illegal tobacco outlets, with almost 200 shops across Queensland shut down since new laws were introduced in November 2025.
The statewide operation saw an extra 51 stores closed during a ten-day blitz from 25 November to 4 December, including Burdekin Tobacco, adding to earlier closures. Experts say this is likely just the tip of the iceberg.
Australian Association of Convenience Stores chief executive Theo Fukkare told the Townsville Bulletin that the closures were a positive step but warned that authorities would need to monitor the stores closely as they prepare to reopen.
“We think 200 is maybe a quarter of all of the available stores selling illegal products, so there’s still a long way to go,” he said.
“I would suggest that potentially, the authorities have gone for the high-profile ones in high-profile areas, though there are a lot more through the state.”
The closure of Burdekin Tobacco was issued under the state’s new tobacco laws, aimed at curbing the sale of illicit cigarettes, vapes, and nicotine products. Authorities have seized more than 2.5 million illicit cigarettes, 31,000 vapes, and nearly 39,000 nicotine pouches across Queensland since the crackdown began.
Burdekin Tobacco was one of six tobacconists in the region. Located in the Burdekin Plaza, it was a popular option for locals. The closure leaves a gap for residents who regularly purchased legal tobacco products from the Burdekin outlet.
Some of the closed stores, including Burdekin Tobacco, could reopen soon, with authorities expected to monitor compliance closely. Authorities say checks will continue to ensure stores operate within the law when they reopen.
Mr Fukkare called on the government to ensure there is an authorised officer at the stores on the day or days after they reopen.
“Just to make sure that if they do want to run the gauntlet, then they can shut them down again.”
Burdekin Tobacco on Edwards Street, Ayr, has been temporarily closed as part of a state government crackdown on illegal tobacco outlets, with almost 200 shops across Queensland shut down since new laws were introduced in November 2025. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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