Decision reserved on plain cigarette packs

After more than two days of hearings the High Court has announced it will reserve its decision on an appeal by tobacco companies against the federal government's plain-packaging laws.

Four big tobacco companies are challenging the plain packaging laws, which will require all cigarettes and tobacco products to be sold in drab olive-brown packs from December.

They're arguing the laws effectively acquire their property, in the form of trademarks and logos, and are unconstitutional unless just compensation is paid.