Discount cigarettes Australia: Is it too good to be true?
As a smoker living in Australia, it can be tough to keep up with the ever-increasing prices of cigarettes. With the country having one of the highest cigarette taxes in the world, it’s becoming harder and harder for smokers to afford their habit. This has led to many people turning to the internet in search of cheaper options. One site that keeps popping up is discount cigarettes Australia. But are these discounts too good to be true? In this article, I will delve into the world of discounted cigarettes in Australia and provide you with all the information you need.
What is a discount cigarette?
Before we dive into the details of discount cigarettes in Australia, let’s first understand what they are. A discount cigarette is a cigarette that is sold at a lower price than the usual retail price. This could be due to various reasons, such as bulk buying, wholesale discounts, or even selling expired or counterfeit products. In the case of Discount cigarettes Australia, the prices are lower due to being sold online and not having to pay the hefty taxes that are imposed on cigarettes in the country.
Is discount cigarettes Australia legal?
The sale of cigarettes is heavily regulated in Australia, and it is illegal to sell cigarettes without a license. So, are discount cigarettes Australia legal? The answer is yes and no. It is not illegal to purchase cigarettes online from a discount site, but it is illegal to sell them within Australia without the proper license. This is why many of these sites operate from overseas, where they are not subject to the Australian laws and taxes. However, it is worth noting that purchasing discounted cigarettes from these sites is not risk-free. The quality and authenticity of the products cannot be guaranteed, and you are also breaking the law by purchasing them.
Why are cigarettes expensive in Australia?
To understand the appeal of discount cigarettes Australia, it’s important first to understand why cigarettes are so expensive in the country. The main reason is the high taxes imposed on tobacco products. The Australian government introduced the Tobacco Excise in 1901, and since then, the taxes on cigarettes have only been going up. Currently, the total tax on a pack of cigarettes is close to 70% of the retail price. This means that a pack of cigarettes that costs $20 could have around $13.60 worth of taxes added to it.
The aim of the high taxes is to discourage smoking and reduce the healthcare costs associated with it. However, studies have shown that while taxes do have an impact on the number of people smoking, they also lead to an increase in the demand for cheaper options. This is where discount cigarettes Australia comes into play.
Pros of purchasing discount cigarettes Australia
The most obvious advantage of buying discounted cigarettes in Australia is the cost savings. You can find a pack of cigarettes on discount sites for as low as $10. This is almost half the price of a pack bought from a local store. This can lead to significant savings for smokers, especially those who smoke regularly. Another advantage is the convenience of purchasing cigarettes online. You don’t have to leave your house or even your desk to buy your cigarettes. With a few clicks, your cigarettes will be delivered straight to your doorstep.
Cons of purchasing discount cigarettes Australia
The biggest disadvantage of purchasing discounted cigarettes in Australia is the legality issue. According to the Australian Border Force, if you are caught purchasing tobacco products from overseas without paying the required taxes, you could be liable for fines or even jail time. Not to mention, the potential health risks associated with smoking cigarettes that are not regulated by the Australian government. Another con is the unpredictability of delivery times. As most of these sites operate from overseas, the laws and regulations of those countries can also affect the delivery of your product.
Alternative options in Australia
If you are a smoker living in Australia, there are legal and safer options to purchase cigarettes at a discount. The most effective one is to buy cigarettes in bulk from duty-free stores or online sites that have proper licenses to sell cigarettes. While the savings may not be as significant as purchasing from discount sites, it is a safer and legal option.
In conclusion, while the attraction of discount cigarettes Australia may be tempting, it is essential to consider the risks and consequences that come with it. Not only is it illegal, but there is also no guarantee of the quality of the product. As a smoker, it’s important to find more sustainable and legal ways to save money on cigarettes, such as purchasing in bulk or switching to a cheaper brand. Quitting altogether would also not only save you money but also improve your overall health.