Professor David Bright, a leading criminologist from the Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation, is at the forefront of a major national research initiative tackling Australia’s growing illicit nicotine trade. 

“This is a rapidly evolving black market with serious implications for public health and organised crime,” said Professor Bright. “Our research will provide the first detailed national picture of illicit nicotine use in Australia, helping to inform smarter, more effective policy responses.” 

Led by Dr James Martin from Deakin’s School of Humanities and Social Sciences, the interdisciplinary team was awarded $310,000 in funding from the Department of Home Affairs. The project brings together experts in criminology, public health and public policy from Deakin University, the University of Sydney and the Australian National University. 

The research aims to deliver the first comprehensive analysis of the national illicit tobacco and nicotine market — a black market that is rapidly expanding and posing serious challenges for law enforcement and public health. 

Dr Martin said the research comes at a critical time. “Illicit nicotine has emerged as one of the most serious black markets and criminal problems facing the country. This project will assist the Illicit Tobacco and E-Cigarette Commissioner in quantifying the scale and composition of the nicotine black market, providing critical insights that can be used to inform law enforcement and regulatory policy”. 

Stage 1 of the project began in January this year and has already delivered significant results. Last week, the team presented their first report at the AFP Headquarters in Canberra to the Illicit Tobacco and E-Cigarette Commissioner. This report provides a detailed picture of the scale and composition of the illicit nicotine market in Australia, including insights into the types of products being used, the financial size of the market and the demographics and behaviours of consumers and retailers involved.  

With Stages 2 and 3 now approved, the project will continue through to April 2026. The findings are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping national policy and enforcement strategies, reinforcing ADI and Deakin’s leadership in interdisciplinary research and their shared commitment to addressing complex societal challenges.