Secret Meeting with Big Tobacco Sparks Criticism
The Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand (TSANZ) has voiced strong concerns over the Senate Inquiry into the illegal tobacco trade, following revelations of a private meeting with Philip Morris International, one of the largest tobacco companies.
TSANZ Warns Against Weakening Measures
TSANZ has warned that any move to weaken existing tobacco control measures in response to illegal trade could prove detrimental to public health. The Society’s submission emphasises that tobacco excise is a critical health measure and opposes any proposals to reduce it.
Vincent So, CEO of TSANZ, stated, “TSANZ is concerned by the privileged access being granted to the tobacco industry and the secretive way this hearing has been conducted.” He emphasised the need for transparency and the inclusion of public health experts in such discussions.
The inquiry excludes consideration of public health impacts of proposed responses to illegal tobacco trade, raising integrity concerns. TSANZ argues that the terms of reference limit discussions to the illegal trade itself without addressing the broader health implications.
In its submission to the inquiry, TSANZ stressed that Australia’s tobacco control framework, particularly price-based measures such as excise, along with packaging regulations, has been highly effective in reducing smoking rates. Weakening these policies could reverse years of progress and harm vulnerable communities.
Critics, including TSANZ, argue that the terms of reference for the inquiry exclude crucial considerations of how responses to illegal tobacco trade might impact public health. This has raised questions about the integrity of the inquiry process.
According to Mr. So, “Given yesterday’s revelation, it’s hard to believe this was not a deliberate attempt to steer the inquiry to a certain conclusion. Committee members have questions to answer about the integrity of this Inquiry.” The inquiry’s integrity is further questioned due to the National Party accepting $137,500 in donations from Philip Morris International ahead of the 2025 election.
TSANZ and other health advocates emphasise that tobacco excise should be viewed as a health measure, not merely a revenue strategy. This perspective counters any proposals to reduce the excise on tobacco products, which could undermine public health efforts.
This inquiry into the illegal tobacco crisis in Australia began its hearings amid these controversies. TSANZ’s position remains firm that any involvement of tobacco industry representatives in such inquiries should be transparent and open to public scrutiny.
Last updated: 6 May 2026, 7:34 am
