I am the proud owner of a historic race car, a piece of motorsport history, which was originally sponsored by a tobacco company. This car not only embodies the spirit and engineering of its time but also reflects the culture and advertising norms that were prevalent in the era it competed in. Unfortunately, due to current Australian laws that prohibit cigarette advertising, we are unable to display or compete with our cars in their original liveries, hindering the authenticity and historical value that this vehicle holds.

Historic motorsport is a living museum, showcasing the evolution of racing technology and sponsorship culture. Many iconic cars, including those sponsored by tobacco companies, played a critical role in the development of motorsport, not just from a technological standpoint but from cultural and social ones as well. These vehicles are often restored and displayed to celebrate their achievements and the history of the sport.

Current Australian laws on cigarette advertising, while crucial for modern health standards and public well-being, inadvertently overlook the significance of preserving the historical authenticity of past eras. Exempting historic motorsport from these laws allows us to preserve and respect the context and history of the sport, providing enthusiasts, historians, and the public with an accurate representation of our motoring past.

We propose a selective exemption where historic race cars are permitted to display their original liveries in specific contexts, such as car shows, exhibitions, and historic racing events. This would ensure the integrity of said vehicles during competition and historical displays. 

We also request that replica and tribute cars be allowed to carry liveries that resemble significant cars from our motor racing past but without any tobacco product names, past or current. 

We accept that there is to be no financial inducement received by anyone connected with the ownership of any of the cars that this exemption would apply to and understand that it would be in contravention of the PublicHealth (Tobacco and other products) act 2023 and that legal action may be commenced against those who breach this conditions. 

By signing this petition, you support the preservation of our motor racing heritage, allowing historic vehicles to remain true to their original form and educating future generations about the history of motorsport and its evolution. Your signature can help us engage with lawmakers to recognize the importance of this issue and create a path for cultural preservation. Please join me in requesting that the Australian government consider this exemption for the benefit of historic motorsport and its community.