The Combatting Illicit Tobacco Bill 2026 will expand law enforcement powers to investigate illicit tobacco related offending and increase the penalties and consequences for persons involved in illicit tobacco offending. This bill digest outlines the purpose and structure of the bill, the background, and the policy position of non-government parties/independents.

Australia’s tobacco control policy has reached a breaking point. Since 2019–20, revenue has persistently fallen short of forecasts and an illicit market has expanded. This paper explains how split responsibilities and misaligned incentives have produced this outcome. The paper calls for bold policy change, summarised in three key recommendations.

This report presents findings on tobacco and vaping behaviours among Australian secondary school students. While actual use remains low, students overestimate how many of their peers engage in these behaviours, which can influence decision-making. Considerations from the findings for teachers, students and parents/carers are provided.

On 24 October 2024, the NSW Government introduced the Public Health (Tobacco) Amendment Bill (No 2) 2024 into the Legislative Assembly to establish a positive licensing scheme for tobacco retailers and wholesalers and increase penalties for particular offences. The proposed reforms are intended to meet illicit tobacco control and public health objectives. This paper compares...

This briefing aims to support local authorities in England to maximise their local scope for action to improve health and tackle inequalities by addressing tobacco, alcohol and unhealthy food.