As a common individual deeply concerned about our community's health and the economic well-being of our nation, I find the rampant operation of about 25,000 illegal tobacco shops across Australia alarming and increasing every day. These pop-up shops blatantly sell unauthorized tobacco and vape products in broad daylight, disregarding the law and endangering public health by offering substandard products.

Currently, Australia boasts a robust law enforcement workforce, with approximately 72,000 police officers, including the Federal Police, and a total Australian Defence Force strength of around 57,226 active members and 32,560 reserves. If coordinated effectively, a nationwide raid on these illegal tobacco Shops at the same time nationally could serve as a significant deterrent against illegal trade, protect public health, and billions in lost tax revenue.

The unchecked proliferation of these illegal shops poses multiple risks. Beyond the immediate public health hazards due to potentially harmful substances, the fiscal impact is profound. Taxes that could have been collected to fund public services and infrastructure are lost to these unregulated markets. This not only affects the economy but also undermines the efforts of legitimate businesses working within the legal framework.

One of the most critical actions we can take is to pressure authorities to prioritize the shutdown of these operations. Deploying the existing police force efficiently, alongside the ADF when necessary, is a viable solution. Such an initiative requires meticulous planning and execution, but is within the realm of possibility and necessity.

Our call to action is clear. We need the government to organize a synchronized raid and crackdown on these illegal establishments. With collective effort, we can protect our communities from hazardous products and restore much-needed revenue to our economy. I urge you to join me in demanding immediate action to close these illegal tobacco shops. Sign this petition to help make our streets safer and our economy stronger.

Premier Minns Speaks Out (June 2025)
June 2, 2025: Minns urged the federal government to reassess the tobacco excise, claiming the steep tax burden has driven smokers toward street-level black market sales, now appearing “on every high street in Sydney” smallbusiness.nsw.gov.au
He emphasized that NSW Health’s 20 enforcement officers are overwhelmed, and proposed shifting responsibility and police resources
 🔥 Alarming Growth of Pop‑Up Tobacco Shops
Investigative reports show a proliferation of street‑corner tobacco shops, often operating from makeshift setups near schools and local communities, some blending legal with illicit.
NSW now has around 19,500 registered tobacco retailers, up from 14,500, with many selling under‑the‑table cheap illicit cigarettes for $10–$20 a pack—compared to $50+ legally—encouraging black‑market growth