Albanese government gives police tougher tools against illegal tobacco
Labor is amending customs and crime laws to let police move against illegal tobacco suppliers using 'observable indicators' instead of proving intent to defraud.
The Albanese government is changing the Customs Act and Proceeds of Crime Act to strengthen the fight against black-market tobacco. Border Force and state police will be able to act on suspicion using "observable indicators".
These include non-compliant packaging, hidden tobacco, or prices below excise and GST combined. Currently, authorities must prove an intention to defraud, which has frustrated prosecutions.
The new laws will close loopholes and make it easier to track, seize and prosecute illegal operators. Assistant Customs Minister Julian Hill said the changes give law enforcement "the tools they need to make the illicit trade less profitable and higher risk for organised crime."
- Julian Hill
- Assistant Customs Minister
- Customs Act and Proceeds of Crime Act
- Acts being amended
Why it mattersIllegal tobacco feeds organised crime; faster prosecution removes a profit source and raises the risk for those running the black market.
AustraliaAustralian shopkeepers selling illegal tobacco will face quicker prosecution, and cheaper illicit smokes will become harder to find in local shops.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 d ago
