Master Grocers Australia has called for bipartisan action to dismantle Australia’s illicit tobacco market, following the Coalition’s announcement today of new measures targeting the illegal trade and the organised crime networks behind it.

MGA CEO Martin Stirling said the announcement demonstrated growing recognition of the scale of Australia’s illicit tobacco crisis and its impact on legitimate retailers and their communities.

“MGA wants to see all sides of politics commit to serious action to shut down this illegal market and the organised crime networks profiting from it. It is encouraging that political leaders across state and federal jurisdictions and across the political spectrum are now openly and seriously discussing changes to excise tax policies which economic, crime and medical experts say are the cause of the illicit tobacco crisis across Australia” Mr Stirling said.

“For too long, legitimate retailers have been expected to compete with criminals who pay no tax, follow no laws and increasingly use intimidation and violence to protect their illegal trade.

“These are independent, family-owned businesses employing local people and supporting their local schools, sporting clubs and communities. They should not be put at a commercial disadvantage – or have their safety put at risk – simply because they choose to operate within the law.

“MGA has consistently raised these issues with governments and provided both written and oral evidence to the Senate inquiry into illicit tobacco.

“We welcome the focus in today’s announcement on excise policy, stronger enforcement and educating Australians about the connection between purchasing illicit tobacco and funding organised crime. These are measures MGA has been calling for.

“Consumers need to understand that buying illegal tobacco is not a victimless transaction. The money doesn’t just disappear – it helps sustain a criminal market that is hurting legitimate businesses and communities.

“The safety of our members, their staff and their communities is not negotiable.

“MGA will work constructively with the Government, Opposition and all sides of politics on measures that genuinely reduce the illicit market, disrupt organised crime and allow legitimate Australian retailers to operate safely and fairly.” Mr Striling said. (End)

Martin Stirling is available for interview.

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