Former deputy chief medical officer Dr Nick Coatsworth is set to give evidence at a Senate inquiry into Australia’s tobacco crisis, where he argues the growth of an illegal tobacco market reflects broader policy failure. In reporting from multiple outlets, Coatsworth says the situation indicates tobacco control efforts have not sufficiently addressed illegal supply and enforcement gaps. He is expected to advocate reducing tobacco excise (tobacco taxes), arguing that current tax settings are contributing to incentives for illicit trade. Coatsworth also raises concerns that any reduction in the illicit market could help prevent wider harm to public health, while noting that illicit availability remains a major issue. The articles describe his position as focused on the interaction between tax levels and illegal market activity, rather than on reducing smoking demand alone. All sources frame his comments as part of his testimony preparation for the Senate inquiry.