Opposition Leader Angus Taylor has criticised One Nation over its ongoing accusations that the Coalition has copied its approach to tackling the illicit tobacco market. The two conservative-aligned parties have each put forward plans aimed at reducing organised crime linked to illegal tobacco sales, but their proposals differ in several key respects.

The Coalition’s policy, announced as part of its broader campaign to regain voter trust amid historically low poll results, includes an 80 per cent cut to the tobacco excise, the legalisation of vapes and nicotine pouches, and a $60 million national education campaign. According to the Opposition, this package is supported by modelling from the Parliamentary Budget Office and would reduce excise on a standard 20-pack from approximately $30 to just over $6.

In contrast, Pauline Hanson’s One Nation has proposed a 75 per cent cut in tobacco excise accompanied by a three-year pause on indexation. Under this plan, a legal pack currently priced at about $46.50 would fall to roughly $21 or $22—making it more competitive with illicit tobacco products.

One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce, a former deputy prime minister and Coalition member, has accused the Liberals and Nationals of imitating his party’s proposal, calling the similarities between the plans “hilarious.”

Taylor responded by accusing One Nation of failing to develop a fully costed and considered strategy. “When One Nation heard that the Coalition was looking to cut the tobacco excise, they rushed out a media release,” he said. “But governing this country requires more than a media release or a social media post.”

Both parties are attempting to appeal to conservative voters concerned about organised crime and rising tobacco prices, with Taylor aiming to counter the challenge posed by One Nation’s rising support in the sector. As the election approaches, the debate over the best method to curb illicit tobacco sales remains a key battleground for the right-leaning vote.