Victoria's government is facing renewed criticism over its response to the state's illegal tobacco market, with a former federal police officer arguing that stronger enforcement powers should have been introduced much earlier. The issue was raised publicly today, 5 October 2026, as authorities continue using new laws designed to shut down businesses selling illegal tobacco products.

Former Australian Federal Police officer Rohan Pike, who established the Australian Border Force's Tobacco Strike Team, has criticised the Victorian government's handling of the illicit tobacco trade. He argued that the problem had been allowed to grow for years and that police had been requesting stronger powers for a considerable period.

New Victorian laws came into effect on 9 September 2026, giving inspectors and Victoria Police the ability to issue closure notices to businesses found selling illegal tobacco. Businesses can initially be forced to close for up to 90 days, while longer-term closures can be pursued through the courts.

Since the new powers began, authorities have issued at least 51 closure notices, according to information reported today. Businesses receiving closure orders are also publicly listed on the Tobacco Licensing Victoria website.

Mr Pike said the additional powers were encouraging more raids but questioned whether the current enforcement effort was large enough to significantly disrupt the illegal market. He also raised concerns about police resources, arguing that officers dealing with illicit tobacco activity could face pressure to divert attention from other crime priorities.

The illegal tobacco trade has become a major law-enforcement issue in Victoria, with authorities linking the black market to organised crime, violence and a series of arson attacks. Police and government agencies have been increasing enforcement efforts as criminal groups compete for control of the lucrative market.

Victorian Premier Ben Carroll acknowledged today that the state government should have acted sooner. However, he defended the current approach and said the number of tobacco businesses being closed was increasing since the new powers came into effect.

The Victorian government had previously increased the number of Tobacco Licensing Victoria inspectors from 14 to 42. Most inspectors are based in Melbourne, which Mr Pike said could place additional pressure on police in regional communities when enforcement operations require assistance.

The debate has also become part of a wider national argument over Australia's tobacco excise. The federal Coalition and One Nation have proposed significant reductions to tobacco taxes, arguing that high legal prices encourage consumers to purchase cheaper illegal products. The federal government has rejected those proposals and continues to support enforcement against the black market.

Queensland has become an important comparison in the debate. New data released today showed legal cigarette sales increased by 55 per cent after Queensland introduced stronger powers to close illegal tobacco shops. The federal government says the figures demonstrate that shutting illegal retailers can push consumers back towards the legal market.

Victoria's crackdown is therefore likely to remain a significant political and law-enforcement issue as the state approaches its election later this year.

The government maintains that the new laws are beginning to make a difference, while critics argue that more resources and faster enforcement are needed to significantly reduce the illegal tobacco market.