Overview
- Twin ACIC and AIC reports released Thursday say the 2023–24 illicit tobacco burden has quadrupled since 2020–21, making it the second-largest illicit commodity market after drugs.
- The Australian Taxation Office estimates illegal product now accounts for about one in five tobacco sales nationwide.
- ACIC links organised crime groups to more than 200 firebombings and at least three homicides since 2023, alongside widespread extortion and intimidation.
- Federal agencies have seized more than 10 million illicit vaping products since 2024 restrictions took effect, indicating a rapidly expanding black market.
- The findings feed a policy clash, with NSW Premier Chris Minns calling for an excise review as Treasurer Jim Chalmers rejects lowering cigarette prices.