How Much Do Cigarettes Cost in Australia? 2026 Cigarettes Price Guide
If you are wondering how much do cigarettes cost in Australia in 2026, the price varies depending on the brand you choose. Premium brands are priced between $48 and $55 per pack, while budget brands range from $37 to $42 per pack. Government excise duty and policy contribute to these higher prices, with the excise duty for a 20-pack standing at $28.06 as of March 2025. Annual excise increases continue to drive prices upwards. Tobacco remains a significant sector, and you can also purchase cigarettes through alternative methods, such as online retailers like Local Tobacconist Australia.
Key Takeaways
- Cigarette prices in Australia change by brand. Premium brands cost between $48 and $55 per pack. Budget brands cost from $37 to $42 per pack.
- Government excise duty affects prices a lot. Taxes make up 70-75% of the cigarette cost.
- Prices have gone up every year. A 20-pack may cost over $60 by 2027. This is because excise keeps rising.
- Cigarette prices are different in each region. The Northern Territory has the highest prices. Victoria has some of the lowest prices.
- Buying in bulk or bigger packs can save money. The price for each cigarette is lower in larger packs.
- Buying cigarettes from trusted online shops like Local Tobacconist Australia is easy and private. These shops also have good prices.
- Support services can help people quit smoking. The My QuitBuddy app and Quitline give help and advice.
- Always check prices before you buy cigarettes. Prices can be very different at each shop.
how much do cigarettes cost in australia 2026
Average Price Per Pack
You might wonder how much do cigarettes cost in australia in 2026. The average price for a packet of cigarettes sits between $48 and $55 for premium brands. Budget brands usually range from $37 to $42 per pack. These prices reflect both government excise duty and retailer mark-ups. When you visit a shop or look online, you will see that the price can change based on the brand and pack size. Most smokers in australia pay at least $40 for a standard 20-pack. This high price makes many people think twice before buying cigarettes.
Price Trends 2024-2026
If you look at the price history, you will notice a steady rise over the past few years. In 2024, the average price for a 20-pack was about $42. By 2025, it had climbed to $45. The main reason for this increase is the excise duty. The government raises this tax twice a year. Each time the excise goes up, the price you pay at the counter also rises. Retailers adjust their prices quickly after each excise change. You can expect the cost to keep rising if the government continues this policy. Many smokers now search for cheaper options or smaller pack sizes to manage their spending.
Regional Price Differences
You will find that how much do cigarettes cost in australia depends on where you live. Prices can change from state to state. Some regions have higher transport costs or different retailer mark-ups. The table below shows the typical price range for a 20-pack and a 25-pack in each state and territory in 2026.
| State / Territory | Typical 20-Pack Range | Typical 25-Pack Range | Daily Smoking Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| New South Wales | $38 – $48 | $47 – $57 | 7.8% |
| Victoria | $37 – $47 | $46 – $56 | 8.1% |
| Queensland | $37 – $47 | $46 – $56 | 11.1% |
| Western Australia | $39 – $50 | $48 – $60 | 8.2% |
| South Australia | $38 – $48 | $47 – $57 | 9.6% |
| Tasmania | $39 – $49 | $48 – $58 | 11.9% |
| ACT | $38 – $48 | $47 – $57 | 5.1% |
| Northern Territory | $42 – $55 | $52 – $65 | 14.0% |
You can see that the Northern Territory has the highest prices. Tasmania and Western Australia also sit at the higher end. Victoria and Queensland offer some of the lowest prices. These differences mean you might pay more or less depending on your location. If you move or travel, always check how much do cigarettes cost in australia in your new area.
Tip: Always compare prices before you buy. Some online retailers offer better deals, especially if you buy in bulk.
Brand Price Ranges
When you buy cigarettes in Australia in 2026, you will notice that prices change based on the brand and pack size. Some brands cost much more than others. You can use this guide to compare the most popular options and find what suits your budget.
Popular Brands Overview
You will see many brands on the shelves and online. Each brand has its own price point. Here is a table that shows the price for a 20-pack of some of the most popular brands in 2026:
| Brand | Price (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Albany 20’s NEW | $40.81 |
| B&H 20’s NEW | $63.46 |
| Bond Street Classic 20’s NEW | $48.23 |
| Chesterfield 20’s NEW | $42.92 |
| Chesterfield Classic 20’s NEW | $43.44 |
| Classic 20’s NEW | $40.46 |
| Dunhill Original 20’s | $61.92 |
| Holiday 20’s NEW | $46.95 |
| Horizon 20’s NEW | $52.47 |
| JPS 20’s NEW | $48.74 |
| JPS Classic 20’s NEW | $46.11 |
| JPS Evolve 20’s NEW | $45.05 |
Marlboro
Marlboro stands as a well-known premium brand. You will often pay between $55 and $60 for a 20-pack. Many smokers choose Marlboro for its strong flavour and reputation.
Winfield
Winfield remains a favourite in Australia. You can expect to pay around $50 to $54 for a 20-pack. Winfield offers both classic and smooth varieties.
Peter Stuyvesant
Peter Stuyvesant sits in the premium range. A 20-pack usually costs between $53 and $58. This brand is popular for its rich taste.
Benson & Hedges
Benson & Hedges, often called B&H, is one of the most expensive brands. You will see prices as high as $63 for a 20-pack. Many people choose B&H for its quality and smoothness.
Manchester
Manchester gives you a more affordable choice. You can find a 20-pack for about $41 to $44. This brand appeals to smokers who want value for money.
Tip: If you want to try different brands, you can order mixed packs from online retailers like Local Tobacconist Australia.
Pack Size Comparison
You can buy cigarettes in different pack sizes. The most common are 20, 25, and 30 packs. The price per cigarette often drops when you buy a larger pack.
20-Pack
A 20-pack is the standard size. Prices range from $37 for budget brands to $63 for premium brands. Most smokers choose this size for convenience.
25-Pack
A 25-pack gives you more cigarettes in one box. You will pay between $47 and $70, depending on the brand. This size can save you money if you smoke regularly.
30-Pack
A 30-pack offers the best value per cigarette. Prices start at about $56 and can go up to $80 for top brands. You might choose this size if you want to buy in bulk and reduce trips to the shop.
Note: Always check the price per cigarette. Sometimes, a larger pack gives you better value, but not always.
Factors Affecting Price
Excise Duty & Taxes
Cigarettes cost a lot in Australia because of excise duty and GST. These taxes make up most of the price you pay. About 70 to 75% of the price is from taxes. Excise duty is charged for each cigarette. It goes up often because it follows wage growth. GST is added after excise duty, so you pay tax on tax. If a 20-pack costs $50, excise duty is about $30.57. GST is around $4.60. This means you pay almost $35 in taxes for one pack. Every time the government changes these taxes, cigarette prices go up.
- Excise duty and GST are the biggest part of the price.
- Excise duty rises with wages, so prices go up often.
- GST is added after excise duty, making the price higher.
- For a $50 pack, taxes are about $35.
Note: Taxes are a big reason cigarettes cost so much. Government charges make you pay more for tobacco products.
Government Policy
Government policy affects how much tobacco costs in Australia. The government changes excise duty two times each year. When excise goes up, shops raise their prices right away. This means prices rise quickly and often. The table below shows how excise increases change prices and smoking rates.
| Year | Excise Increase | Impact on Retail Prices | Effect on Smoking Prevalence |
|---|---|---|---|
| April 2010 | 25% | Prices went up fast | -0.745 percentage points |
| 2013-2017 | 12.5% yearly | Prices went up fully | -0.997 percentage points |
| 2016-2018 | 12.5% yearly | Sales dropped quickly | Varied by tobacco type |
Recent rules changed customs duties too. Cutting tobacco customs duties by 50% could give big tobacco companies $2.3 billion more each year. British American Tobacco, Imperial Brands, and Philip Morris will benefit most. Experts say tax cuts help tobacco companies, not public health. Some people want stronger rules to protect young people from tobacco harm.
- Cutting customs duty may help tobacco companies earn more.
- Excise increases try to lower smoking rates.
- Health experts want rules to protect young people.
Tip: Keep up with government policy. Changes can affect tobacco prices and how easy it is to buy.
Market Forces
Market forces also change tobacco prices. Inflation makes prices go up as things cost more. Shops use minimum pricing rules, so they cannot sell tobacco too cheap. This keeps prices steady and stops price wars. If you have less money, you might buy cheaper brands or smaller packs. Tax rules have the biggest effect. Higher taxes mean higher prices in shops.
- Inflation makes tobacco cost more.
- Minimum pricing stops prices from falling too low.
- If you have less money, you look for cheaper options.
- Tax rules make shop prices go up.
Callout: You can save money by comparing prices and picking the best value for you.
Excise duty, GST, government policy, and market forces all affect cigarette prices. Knowing these things helps you make smart choices when buying tobacco.
Alternative Markets
Black Market Cigarettes
Price Comparison
Some people in Australia try to find cheaper tobacco on the black market. The price difference is very big between legal and illegal cigarettes. You can see this in the table below:
| Type of Cigarette | Average Price (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Legal Cigarettes | 54.99 |
| Black Market Cigarettes | 11 – 25 |
Black market tobacco costs much less than legal cigarettes. Many people want to save money, so they buy these cheaper products. But buying black market tobacco is risky and can cause problems.
Legal Risks
If you buy black market tobacco, you can get into serious trouble. The government gives out big fines and punishments for illegal tobacco trading. The table shows the main dangers:
| Risk Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Penalties | Big fines and jail time for sellers and buyers |
| Quality Control | No safety checks for illegal tobacco |
| Organised Crime | Criminal groups make lots of money and cause more crime |
You could pay a lot of money or go to jail if you buy or sell illegal tobacco. Black market tobacco is not checked for safety. Criminal groups run much of this trade, which is bad for everyone. Last year, these groups made billions from illegal tobacco in Australia. This also makes more people break the law.
⚠️ Always buy legal tobacco to stay safe and avoid trouble.
Online Retailers
Local Tobacconist Australia
Now you can buy tobacco online from trusted shops. Local Tobacconist Australia is a safe and easy way to get your favourite brands. They sell real products from top suppliers. You can pick from many brands, including cheaper ones. The website helps you compare prices and find good deals.
Local Tobacconist Australia checks every product to make sure it is real. Sometimes, criminals make fake tobacco packs that look like the real thing. These fakes can have warning labels and look just like legal brands. The team checks all their stock so you only get real tobacco.
Delivery & Discretion
Buying online gives you privacy and is simple. Local Tobacconist Australia sends your order fast, usually in two to four days. Your package comes in plain wrapping, so no one knows what is inside. Your details are kept private, and you do not need to go to a shop.
🛒 Tip: Pick trusted online shops for safe and good service.
Future Price Outlook
Projected Increases
Cigarette prices in Australia will keep going up. The government plans to raise excise duty every year. This means each pack will cost more over time. Experts think a 20-pack could cost $60 or more by 2027. Premium brands might be even more expensive. Many people try to save money by buying in bulk or picking cheaper brands.
Note: Check government news in March and September. These months are when excise duty usually rises.
Policy Changes
Government rules decide how tobacco is sold in Australia. Higher taxes are used to stop people from smoking. These rules help protect public health. New laws make it harder for young people to buy tobacco. Some states now have more places where you cannot smoke. Others use plain packaging and stronger warnings on packs.
Here is a table with possible new rules and what they mean:
| Policy Change | Possible Impact on Smokers |
|---|---|
| Higher excise duty | Packs cost more |
| Stricter age checks | Young people find it harder to buy |
| More smoke-free zones | Fewer places to smoke |
| Plain packaging updates | Brands look less appealing |
You should keep up with these changes. They can change how much you pay and where you can smoke.
Consumer Trends
Many Australians now smoke less or quit. High prices and strict rules make people cut down. Some switch to vaping or nicotine pouches. Others use online shops for privacy and ease. More people use help services to stop smoking.
Here are some trends you might see:
- More people buy tobacco online.
- Many smokers get help to quit.
- Fewer young people want to smoke.
- Vaping and other options are more popular.
Tip: If you want to save money or get healthier, try support services or other choices.
Your choices help shape the future of tobacco use in Australia.
Practical Advice
Finding Up-To-Date Prices
It is important to know the latest prices before you buy tobacco in Australia. Prices can go up or down fast, so you should check trusted websites. The Tobacco in Australia website shows the newest prices and what people really pay. You can look at how prices have changed and see different pack sizes. This website uses surveys and the Consumer Price Index, so you can trust the facts.
- The Tobacco in Australia website has new and old prices.
- You can look at prices for each brand and pack size.
- The information comes from official surveys and the government.
Tip: Always look at the newest prices before you buy. This helps you plan your money and stops surprises.
Budgeting Tips
Tobacco in Australia costs a lot of money. You can control your spending by following some easy steps. First, make a weekly or monthly plan for how much you will spend on tobacco. Write down every time you buy a pack. This helps you see where your money goes. You could try cheaper brands or buy bigger packs, as these can sometimes save you money.
Here are some simple ways to keep your spending low:
- Make a clear plan for how much to spend each week.
- Write down what you buy in a notebook or on your phone.
- Check prices at different shops and online.
- Look for deals or discounts from trusted sellers.
- Plan your shopping so you do not buy without thinking.
Note: Keeping to a plan can help you save money and make better choices.
Support For Quitting
If you want to stop smoking, there is lots of help in Australia. You can use free tools and services to make quitting easier. The My QuitBuddy app gives you tips, games, and a place to talk to others. You can call Quitline at 13 7848 for private advice and support. They have special help for people with mental illness and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The Quit.org.au website has tips, plans, and information to help you quit.
- My QuitBuddy app: Tips, games, and support from others.
- Quitline (13 7848): Private advice and special programmes.
- Quit.org.au: Plans and information for quitting.
🟢 Remember: You do not have to quit by yourself. There is always help to support you.
You now know what makes tobacco prices go up in Australia. Excise duty and government rules make cigarettes cost more every year. Brands offer new types and different pack sizes, so there are many choices. Always check trusted websites to get the latest price information. Buying from good online shops can be easier for you. Think carefully before you buy, and remember it is risky to buy from places that are not allowed.
- Excise duty and taxes
- Brand extensions and pack sizes
- Government policy changes
Stay alert and pick what is best for your health and money.
FAQ
How often do cigarette prices change in Australia?
Prices change two times each year. The government changes excise duty in March and September. Shops update their prices soon after. Always check the newest prices before you buy.
Can you buy cigarettes online legally in Australia?
Yes, you can buy cigarettes online from licensed shops like Local Tobacconist Australia. You must be older than 18. The shop checks your age before sending your order.
Why are cigarettes so expensive in Australia?
Excise duty and GST make cigarettes cost a lot. Taxes are most of the price. The government uses these taxes to help people smoke less and stay healthy.
Are there cheaper alternatives to premium cigarette brands?
You can pick budget brands or bigger packs to save money. Online shops sometimes have deals or discounts. Always compare prices before you buy.
What happens if you buy black market cigarettes?
⚠️ Buying black market cigarettes is against the law. You could get big fines or go to jail. These cigarettes might not be safe and help organised crime.
How can you check if a retailer is legitimate?
Look for an Australian Business Number (ABN) and check reviews. Trusted shops like Local Tobacconist Australia show clear contact details and customer ratings.
Can you return cigarettes bought online?
Most shops do not let you return tobacco because of health rules. Always check the shop’s return policy before you order.
Where can you get help to quit smoking?
You can use Quitline (13 7848), the My QuitBuddy app, or visit Quit.org.au. These services give free advice, support, and help to stop smoking.