We are building and expanding relationships with Commonwealth, state and territory agencies, as well as global partners. We are working to strengthen the network that fights illicit tobacco and e‑cigarette activity. Building trust with the public and our partners is essential. By being open and transparent, we aim to build confidence in our ability to tackle the trade of illicit tobacco and e‑cigarettes.
Government agencies
Government departments at both the federal and state levels are responsible for areas like health, taxation and customs enforcement. These include the Department of Health and Aged Care, the Australian Border Force (ABF), the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and the Australian Federal Police (AFP).
Law enforcement bodies
Police and law enforcement agencies play a vital role in stopping the trade of illicit tobacco and e‑cigarettes. This includes efforts to disrupt smuggling networks and illegal sales.
Public health organisations
Health advocacy groups, non‑government organisations and public health agencies who are concerned with the health impacts of illegal tobacco and e‑cigarette products.
Industry representatives
Legal tobacco and e‑cigarette companies, retailers and industry groups involved in fighting illegal trade. Illegal activity hurts businesses and makes it harder to follow regulations. We work with them under Australia's obligations as part of the World Health Organization's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). Under Article 5.3 of the FCTC, ‘public officials should interact with the tobacco industry only when strictly necessary to achieve effective regulation and policy development.’
Community organisations
Local community groups and schools that run public awareness campaigns and outreach programs to reduce demand for illegal products and promote healthier lifestyles.
Policymakers and legislators
Members of parliament, legislative bodies and policy advisors who help create and improve laws and regulations that focus on tobacco control, public health and law enforcement.
International partners
We work with other countries and organisations to stop cross‑border smuggling and illegal trade. This includes working with foreign customs, law enforcement agencies, international groups like the World Health Organization (WHO) and regional coalitions.