Introduction:
As someone who has been smoking cigarettes for over 10 years, I have seen the prices of cigarettes constantly rise in Australia. With a pack of cigarettes now costing around $35, it’s no wonder that many smokers are looking for cheaper alternatives. This is where the topic of cheap cigarettes in Australia comes in. In this article, I will provide information about cheap cigarettes, their availability, and the various factors that contribute to their low cost. Cheap cigarettes are a controversial topic, but it’s important to provide accurate information for those who are looking for more affordable options.
Availability of Cheap Cigarettes in Australia:
As we all know, cigarettes are not cheap in Australia. This is due to the high taxes and regulations imposed by the government in an effort to reduce smoking rates. However, despite these measures, there are still options available for smokers who are looking for cheaper cigarettes.
The most common type of cheap cigarettes in Australia is known as “roll your own” or “rollies”. These are cigarettes that are made by hand using loose tobacco and rolling papers. They are significantly cheaper than pre-packaged cigarettes and can be found in most convenience stores and tobacco shops. In fact, many smokers have switched to rollies in order to save money and have more control over the strength and flavor of their cigarettes.
Factors Contributing to Low Cost:
The main factor contributing to the low cost of rollies is the absence of branding and advertising costs. Unlike pre-packaged cigarettes, rollies do not have fancy packaging or advertisement campaigns. This saves a lot of money for both the manufacturer and the consumer. Additionally, rollies are considered to be “self-made”, meaning they are not subjected to the high taxes imposed on pre-packaged cigarettes.
Another factor is the use of loose tobacco instead of pre-packaged tobacco. Pre-packaged tobacco has gone through a process of curing, cutting, and flavoring, which adds to the cost. Loose tobacco, on the other hand, is cheaper because it has not gone through the same processes. This, combined with the absence of branding and advertising costs, makes rollies a more affordable option for smokers in Australia.
Possible Risks of Cheap Cigarettes:
It’s important to note that while rollies may be a cheaper option, they can also pose potential risks. The lack of regulation and quality control in the tobacco used for rollies is a concern for many smokers. As a result, the tobacco may contain higher levels of harmful additives and chemicals, making them more dangerous for consumption.
Furthermore, due to the absence of filters in rollies, smokers may inhale more tar and toxic chemicals, which can lead to various health problems. It’s also worth mentioning that hand-rolled cigarettes are more likely to cause fires due to the lack of safety features present in pre-packaged cigarettes.
In addition to these risks, it’s important to acknowledge the addictive nature of cigarettes in general. Even with the low cost of rollies, the habit of smoking can still lead to a significant financial burden, along with serious health issues.
Conclusion:
As a smoker, I understand the struggle of finding affordable cigarettes in Australia. While cheap cigarettes may seem like a convenient and cost-effective option, it’s important to consider the potential risks and implications of choosing this alternative. It’s also crucial to remember that the best way to save money and protect your health is to quit smoking altogether.
In conclusion, cheap cigarettes are available in Australia in the form of rollies, which are significantly cheaper than pre-packaged cigarettes. However, the low cost is due to the absence of branding and advertising costs, and the use of loose tobacco. Despite being a more affordable option, rollies may pose potential risks and should be consumed with caution. Ultimately, quitting smoking is the best way to save money and improve one’s health. Cheap cigarettes may seem like a solution in the short term, but in the long run, the cost will outweigh the benefits.