New wastewater data reveals that 80 per cent of tobacco products consumed in Australia are now imported illegally.

Woolcock Institute head of respiratory, cellular and molecular biology group Professor Brian Oliver told 3AW Breakfast hosts Ross and Russel not knowing what’s in an illegally imported cigarette is dangerous for consumers.

“The reality is with anything that’s illegal, we’ve no idea what’s in it.”

Press PLAY to learn what percentage of vapes are bought illegally

Victorian Chamber of Commerce + Industries chief executive Sally Curtain warned 3AW Breakfast hosts Ross and Russel that without swift action organised crime will simply take over.

Press PLAY to hear Sally Curtain’s full proposed plan

“Where taxes are so high consumers do turn to illegal products … and unfortunately organised crime profits.”

“Whatever we need to be doing in Victoria to stop this, we must.”

Image: iStock