Released 29/04/2026
The ACT Government, working alongside the Australian Border Force and partner agencies, have undertaken inspections at 6 retail outlets across the ACT to protect public health, community safety and legitimate ACT businesses.
“This enforcement activity demonstrates the ACT Government’s continued focus on cracking down on illegal activity that harms the community and undercuts businesses doing the right thing,” Minister for City and Government Services, Tara Cheyne said.
“The ACT Government welcomes the strong ACT results delivered as part of the Australian Border Force‑led illicit tobacco National Disruption Group which brings together 29 State and Federal agencies to identify and disrupt illicit tobacco networks that threaten Australian borders and the ACT.”
As part of the operation, Access Canberra officers, ACT Policing, the Therapeutic Goods Administration, and working with the Australian Border Force, carried out compliance and enforcement action at 6 retail outlets across Canberra.
This resulted in the seizure of:
- Over 455,156 illicit cigarettes, approximately 26 kg loose leaf tobacco, and 1,643 vaping devices
- Identified 6 persons of interest with known links to the illicit tobacco trade, and
- Approximately AUD $27,400 cash, and over 6,290 cigars.
“Illicit tobacco and illegal vaping products pose real risks to public health, undermine businesses that operate lawfully, and can fuel organised crime,” said Minister Cheyne.
“This operation sends a clear message that the ACT is not a place where criminals can profit from illegal tobacco.
“These results highlight the value of joint enforcement and intelligence sharing. By working together, agencies can disrupt illegal supply chains and take effective action on the ground in the ACT.”
This National Disruption Group (NDG) operation is an ongoing multi agency activity, it has involved sustained planning and preparation over a number of months by NDG participating agencies. Illicit tobacco typically transits multiple locations, making enforcement activities pre, at and post border critical to preventing its entry into the ACT.
Anyone who is aware of or suspects the sale of illegal tobacco or vaping products is encouraged to report it to Access Canberra via the Access Canberra website, or anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Quotes attributable to Josh Rynehart, ACT Commissioner for Fair Trading:
“Access Canberra, along with ACT Police has worked with Australian Government agencies on developing this program to disrupt illegal tobacco. I have previously put retailers operating in the ACT on notice that they are expected to comply with the law and trade fairly.
“Selling illicit tobacco or illegal vaping products is a serious breach that undermines consumer trust, damages legitimate businesses and puts community health at risk.
Access Canberra will continue to take a firm stance on compliance to ensure a fair and safe marketplace for Canberrans.”
- Statement ends -
Tara Cheyne, MLA | Media Releases