Federal Labor says it will increase tobacco excise four times each year, until 2020, if it wins the next election. 

The changes would have a big impact on western Victoria residents, as data released in October 2013 found the Grampians region had the highest adult smoking rate in the country at 28 per cent.

East Grampians Health Service chief executive Nick Bush said he welcomed the increase.

“I am totally in support of this as it is a good initiative.

“The link between smoking and poor health has been well-documented and there will be a decrease in cigarette use if this happens.

Mr Bush said an increase in tax would encourage more people to give up smoking.

“Anything we can do to deter people from smoking is a good move.”

Opposition health spokeswoman Catherine King said while she was aware the move would affect people in low socio-economic areas, it was a necessary step to take.