Combatting Illicit Tobacco Bill 2026

Mr McCORMACK (Riverina) (13:29): Up to four in five cigarettes smoked in Australia are illegal. This is a disgrace. This is an absolute disgrace.

Between 2025-26 and 2029-30, the government expects to collect $15.4 billion in excise. That's compared to the $27.3 billion it had forecast for the same period in last year's budget. That is a shortfall of $11.9 billion in excise in money that could be spent in state hospitals, in money that could be spent keeping the lights on, in money that could be spent for hardworking taxpayers— The DEPUTY SPEAKER ( Dr Garland ): The debate is interrupted in accordance with standing order 43.

The debate may be resumed at a later hour. The member will have leave to continue speaking when the debate is resumed.