Australians are spending less to consume more nicotine as illegal tobacco trade explodes
New data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics reveals that nicotine consumption in Australia has risen by 40% since 2017, despite a significant increase in the use of illegal tobacco products. While consumption is up, household spending on tobacco has dropped as consumers shift toward cheaper, illicit alternatives.
Why it matters
This trend suggests that high taxes and regulatory measures may be inadvertently fueling a massive black market, undermining public health goals.
In 2017, only 12% of the total tobacco consumed was from illicit sources. By 2025, that had risen to 80%. Photograph: Jenny Kane/AP View image in fullscreen In 2017, only 12% of the total tobacco consumed was from illicit sources. By 2025, that had risen to 80%. Photograph: Jenny Kane/AP Health Australians are spending less to consume more nicotine as illegal tobacco trade explodes Australian Bureau of Statistics estimates nicotine consumption rose 40%, with illicit sources accounting for 80% of all tobacco
The report relies on official government statistics and presents the data objectively without editorializing.
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