Australia's Crackdown on Illicit Tobacco & Vapes

0:00This is Sydney News Today, powered by AI and presented by the Daily News Now. Australia is launching a major crackdown on the black market for illicit tobacco and vapes. The government plans tougher penalties, new criminal offenses, and expanded police powers like wire taps and asset seizures. These measures target organized crime groups profiting from the multi-billion dollar trade. Assistant Minister for Customs, Julian Hill announced the changes at a symposium in Canberra. The goal is to make the illegal business riskier by hitting criminals' profits hard. Penalties could double or triple current jail terms, and tobacco crimes will be treated as serious offenses. The illicit market is massive, with more than half of all tobacco sold in Australia, now illegal. This has caused the government between 7.7 billion and 11.8 billion dollars in lost excise revenue last year. Organized crime earned 4.1 billion to 6.9 billion dollars in profits. Fueling violence and hurting legal retailers. States and territories are urged to

1:04close illegal shopfronts, punish landlords, and boost street-level enforcement. The crackdown also eyes online sales and the rise in nicotine pouches. South Australia and Queensland are leading with stronger laws and better results. Legislation details come next week when parliament resumes. Critics, including former Border Force officers and opposition figures, say enforcement must pair with excise tax reviews and regulation of nicotine. Alternatives, a Senate inquiry starts hearings next month to push for better responses. This episode is proudly sponsored by our partner. If earbuds fall out when you sleep, this is for you. A pillow with built-in sound, S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com.