The illicit tobacco trade in Australia

Rates of smoking in Australia are the lowest they’ve ever been, but at the same time, the illicit trade has never been bigger. It’s estimated 80% of the tobacco trade is now illicit and the same taxes that helped curb smoking are now fuelling organised crime.

One Nation and the Coalition both believe cutting the tobacco excise is the only way to stop crime. But with the potential for reform on the table, Matilda Boseley speaks to senior reporter Henry Belot about why the tobacco lobby are keen to influence debate