Combatting Illicit Tobacco Bill 2026

Stage by Stage

Summaries in reported speech - not a transcript. In date order, both chambers.

1. Thursday 26 March 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The debate concerned the Combatting Illicit Tobacco Bill 2026, which aimed to strengthen laws against illicit tobacco trade. The Assistant Minister argued that illicit tobacco had evolved into a serious organised crime issue requiring enhanced penalties and law enforcement powers. The bill sought to increase consequences for criminal actors and improve mechanisms for targeting illicit profits. No opposition speakers were recorded in the provided transcript. The debate was adjourned following the minister's speech.

   Outcome: Debate adjourned.

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2. Thursday 14 May 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The debate centred on the Combatting Illicit Tobacco Bill 2026, which aims to increase penalties, expand investigative powers, and strengthen proceeds-of-crime provisions to combat the illicit tobacco market. The government argued the bill was a necessary response to organised crime violence and revenue loss, while opposition members contended it was insufficient and failed to address the root cause of high excise taxes driving the black market. An amendment moved by the Coalition to note the government's policy failures and call for a comprehensive national strategy was debated. The Coalition ultimately supported the bill's passage despite these criticisms.

   Outcome: The amendment moved by Andrew Hastie was not carried, and the bill proceeded for further consideration.

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3. Thursday 4 June 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The debate focused on the scale of the illicit tobacco market in Australia and the need for stronger legal measures to combat it. Claire Clutterham supported the bill, arguing that increased penalties and enhanced proceeds of crime powers were necessary to deter organised criminal syndicates and recover lost tax revenue. Michael McCormack also supported the legislation, highlighting the significant shortfall in expected excise collections and the dominance of illegal products in the domestic market. Both members emphasised the negative impact of illicit trade on community services and legitimate businesses.

   Outcome: The bill was commended to the House by the lead member.

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4. Monday 22 June 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   Members debated the Combatting Illicit Tobacco Bill 2026, with Labor members like Jess Teesdale supporting it as a necessary measure to disrupt organised crime and protect public health. Coalition members, including Leon Rebello, and Independent Allegra Spender argued that high excise taxes drove the illicit market and that the bill was insufficient without broader reforms. The discussion highlighted concerns regarding community safety, lost revenue, and the impact on legitimate businesses. An amendment by Monique Ryan to ban political donations from the tobacco industry was noted during the proceedings.

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5. Wednesday 19 August 2026 · House of Representatives

   Bill Debate
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6. Wednesday 19 August 2026 · House of Representatives

   Consideration in Detail

   The debate centred on an amendment moved by Sophie Scamps to ban the importation of tobacco manufacturing equipment unless explicit permission was granted. Scamps argued this would disrupt illicit production upstream and align with international standards. Assistant Minister Julian Hill opposed the amendment, citing advice from the Australian Border Force that such equipment is multipurpose and used in legitimate industries like pharmaceuticals and food production. The minister argued that regulating this equipment would divert resources from border inspections. The amendment was negated, and the bill was agreed to.

   Outcome: The amendment was negated and the bill was agreed to.

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7. Wednesday 19 August 2026 · House of Representatives

   Report from Federation Chamber
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8. Wednesday 19 August 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The debate centred on the Combatting Illicit Tobacco Bill 2026, which aims to strengthen penalties, expand law enforcement powers, and enhance proceeds-of-crime measures to disrupt organised criminal networks involved in the illicit tobacco trade. Government members and independent senators supported the bill, arguing that illicit tobacco undermines public health gains, fuels violence, and harms legitimate businesses, while emphasising the need for coordinated federal and state enforcement. The Shadow Assistant Minister supported the bill but argued it was insufficient without addressing high excise taxes, which he claimed drove consumers to the black market. The Assistant Minister refuted this, stating excise is a health measure, not a revenue tool, and highlighted successful enforcement actions and the need for states to close illegal retail outlets.

   Outcome: The bill was debated at second reading; the transcript does not state the final passage result.

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9. Wednesday 19 August 2026 · House of Representatives

   Third Reading
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10. Thursday 20 August 2026 · Senate

    Limitation of Debate
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