Sydney: The Australian state of Victoria has introduced new legislation aimed at shutting down businesses involved in the illegal tobacco trade, as authorities respond to a significant rise in nicotine consumption across the country.
The proposed laws would grant police and state regulators expanded powers to close businesses found selling illicit tobacco products. Authorities would be able to issue immediate closure notices and seek court orders to extend shutdown periods for repeat offenders.
Under the legislation, businesses that fail to comply with enforcement orders could face penalties exceeding A$2.4 million, while individuals involved in serious breaches may face prison sentences of up to 20 years. Officials say the measures are designed to disrupt criminal networks that profit from the illegal tobacco market.
Victoria’s Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Enver Erdogan, said illicit tobacco sales pose serious risks to public safety and contribute to organised crime activities. He stressed that authorities are committed to eliminating illegal operators across the state.
The move follows new data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showing that nicotine consumption increased by 40 percent between 2017 and 2025, significantly outpacing population growth. The agency found that the rise was largely driven by growing use of illegal tobacco products and e-cigarettes.
Australia has some of the highest tobacco taxes in the world, with excise duties pushing the cost of a packet of cigarettes above A$60 in many cases. While health authorities argue the policy discourages smoking, critics say the high prices have encouraged consumers to turn to cheaper black-market alternatives.
According to official estimates, around 80 percent of nicotine products consumed in Australia last year originated from illegal sources. Authorities hope the new measures will help reduce illicit trade, protect public health and weaken organised criminal groups operating within the tobacco market.
The latest crackdown highlights the growing challenge facing Australian authorities as they balance strict tobacco control policies with efforts to curb the expanding black market. Officials say stronger enforcement, combined with public health initiatives, will be essential to reducing illegal tobacco sales and addressing the rising consumption of nicotine products across the country.
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