Ten Western Sydney Smoke Shops Shut in $256k Raid as NSW Government Faces Business and Audit Scrutiny

Enforcement authorities have closed a further ten retail businesses in Western Sydney following targeted operations focused on illicit tobacco and vaping products, according to a report by the Sydney Times. News.com.au also reported on the operations, noting that 10 smoke shops were shut down alongside the seizure of a $256k illicit haul.

The retail closures in Western Sydney take place alongside wider compliance actions by the NSW Government. According to a report by Nambucca Valley News Of The Area, the NSW Government is cracking down on fraudulent pink- and blue-slip operators.

Retail and hospitality operators are also facing proposed state changes regarding reusable drinkware and takeaway packaging. The Australian Association of Convenience Stores reported that the NSW Government plans to force coffee shops to bear the cost of recycled mugs. In a separate report, Nine.com.au noted that café owners are warning against a major takeaway coffee cup change.

State government procurement practices have also come under scrutiny following a review of wines served in public buildings. Winetitles reported that an audit revealed just 8.7% of the wines served inside buildings owned by the NSW Government are local.

Additional financial, infrastructure and property challenges have been reported for Sydney businesses and outer suburbs. Nine.com.au reported that a Sydney plastics manufacturer has been left out of pocket by $800k after a COVID bungle. Meanwhile, The Urban Developer reported that as Sydney's new airport opens, the $59bn growth challenge in Western Sydney continues to deepen, while Nine.com.au examined whether travellers can actually save money flying from Sydney's new airport. In property and urban development, Domain reported on a catch facing Australian buyers as house prices tumble nationwide, while SMH.com.au highlighted NSW regional towns where house prices have defied the downturn, and The Daily Telegraph examined lesser-known Sydney suburbs from Pondicherry to Mannix.