# Australia reaches historic low in smoking rates amid illicit tobacco rise

Smoking rates in Australia have fallen to an all-time low, continuing a long-term public health success. This decline occurs despite a concurrent rise in illicit tobacco consumption. The trend highlights effective anti-smoking policies even as authorities grapple with black market challenges.

**Importance:** 3/5

## Sources

### World
- [The Guardian World](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/jul/17/smoking-rate-australia-historic-low-illicit-tobacco) — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:00:43 GMT