MGA Independent Businesses Australia is calling for a Senate inquiry into the country’s expanding illicit tobacco market, warning that small retailers are increasingly vulnerable to violence and intimidation.
The association says the black-market trade, once considered minor offending, has grown into “a highly criminal industry operating openly and aggressively across Australia”.
MGA CEO Martin Stirling described the situation as a “national embarrassment” that has outpaced current enforcement efforts.
Small grocery and liquor stores appear to be among the hardest hit. Firebombings, ram-raids, extortion attempts, and threats have become more common, with retailers at MGA’s recent Retail Crime & Safety Forum reporting both financial and psychological strain.
“The impact isn’t just about retailers having to deal with a dangerous retail landscape; it’s economic,” said Stirling.
“Billions in lost excise revenue that should be funding essential services are instead enriching organised crime. We cannot allow this to continue unchecked. A Senate inquiry is an essential step to protect small businesses and hold criminals accountable.”
MGA argues that a Senate inquiry could help quantify the scale of the problem and prompt coordinated action between federal and state agencies.
The group also calls for tougher penalties, stronger enforcement, and clearer protections for small businesses. Stirling added that the crisis is escalating faster than government responses. “Small businesses need protection, certainty, and a clear commitment that their safety matters,” he said.
