The Federal Health Minister, Nicola Roxon, has introduced plain packaging legislation for cigarettes in Parliament. She said that they have taken the action because the use of tobacco is illegal in the country. She also said that the new legislation will mean Australia has the toughest tobacco promotion laws in the world. Another bill has also been introduced by the government which will remove company trademarks from cigarette packs.

After the introduction of new legislation, the government has faced a number of warnings of legal challenges from tobacco companies. Some of the companies have cautioned the government that it may have to pay billions of dollars bin financial compensation. World’s leading tobacco company, Philip Morris is among the companies, which are taking legal action over the laws.

Ms. Roxon said, “Our Government won't be deterred from taking this action and we believe that we are on very strong ground, although this is a world first taking this action, and are determined to proceed with it”. She added that the government will receive the suggestions related to amendments from opposition.

Tobacco is the main reason behind preventable deaths in the country and it claims the lives of over 15,000 Australians every year.