Ban Cigarettes, Health Groups Tell Australia

Because we might as well get the black market started, pronto

AUSTRALIA'S push to bring in the world's toughest tobacco packaging laws has won the backing of the High Court - but some of the nation's leading healthcare executives have called on Canberra to take the next step and ban cigarettes.

Cigarettes sold in Australia after December 1 will come in dull, olive-brown packs featuring graphic health warnings following the court ruling. Brand names will be restricted to small, generic type.

The laws set a tough new international standard, with New Zealand expected to follow suit and countries such as the United Kingdom, France, South Africa and China considering the measure.