Illicit tobacco crop discovered near Shepparton after tip-off
Officers from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and Victoria Police have seized and destroyed $4.4 million worth of illegally-grown tobacco near Shepparton in Victoria's north.
A community tip-off led to the discovery of a 20-tonne crop of mature tobacco on 2.4 hectares, an area equivalent to more than 450 tennis courts, last Thursday.
Authorities also seized several trays of tobacco seedlings from the property.
ATO assistant commissioner Jade Hawkins said cracking down on the illicit tobacco trade was a priority for enforcement agencies.
"They put the Australian community at risk when they use profits from these activities to fund other serious crimes."
It is illegal to grow tobacco in Australia without the appropriate excise licence.
Ms Hawkins said hefty penalties apply including up to 10 years imprisonment for anyone caught dealing in the illicit tobacco trade.
"This type of activity takes vital money away from the community and places it directly into the hands of organised criminals who mistakenly think they can sail under the radar," she said.
A warrant to search the property north-east of Shepparton was issued after a tip-off from the community. The ATO said some visible signs of illegal tobacco activity could include unexplained water use, unmarked vans being loaded with cardboard boxes at strange hours, and sounds of machinery running overnight.
Excessive security measures, such as cameras, locks, or guards, may also be signs of illegal activity.
Between 2018 and 2024, the ATO seized and destroyed more than 250 hectares of illicit tobacco crops, with 30 convictions for related offences.
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