Dear Members and Senators,
Illicit tobacco is a serious threat to the safety of all Australians.
Over 28% of tobacco consumed in Australia is now supplied by the black market. That is unacceptable in a country like Australia.
While law-abiding retailers like me do the right thing, we are forced to compete with an untaxed and unregulated illegal market – run by organised crime who use violence and intimidation to protect their profits.
There have now been over 80 arson attacks on tobacconists caught up in the illicit tobacco trade. These attacks put nearby residents and shopkeepers at risk. These attacks are becoming more frequent, not less.
The $4.8 billion lost to the illicit market last year went into the pockets of criminals, who used this money to put drugs and guns on streets, and fund people smugglers and human traffickers.
Governments must do more to tackle the illicit tobacco trade, before it’s too late.
I am asking you to take this threat seriously, with stronger laws and more funding for enforcement.
I would be grateful if your office could contact me by replying to this email to arrange a time to meet.
Thank you,
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