As someone who has lived in Australia for my entire life, I have seen the increasing prices of cigarettes over the years. In fact, Australia now has one of the highest cigarette prices in the world, with a pack costing an average of $40. This has resulted in many smokers turning to cheaper alternatives, such as purchasing cigarettes online or buying “chop-chop” tobacco. However, as we all know, cheaper does not always mean better. In this article, I will be discussing the issue of cheap cigarettes in Australia and the potential risks and consequences that come with it.
Firstly, let’s take a look at why cigarettes in Australia are so expensive. One of the main reasons for this is the high taxes imposed by the government. In 2017, the Australian government announced their plan to increase the price of cigarettes by 12.5% every year, with the goal of reaching $40 per pack by 2020. This was done in an attempt to reduce smoking rates and improve public health. However, with the high taxes, it has also created a black market for cheaper cigarettes.
This is where the link comes in. Cheap cigarettes Australia are now readily available on the internet, with websites promising prices that are significantly cheaper than what you can find in stores. These websites often claim to sell “duty-free” or “tax-free” cigarettes, which may seem like a great deal. However, it is important to note that these cigarettes are not always legitimate and could potentially be harmful to your health.
One of the biggest risks of purchasing cheap cigarettes in Australia is the quality of the product. These cigarettes are often produced in countries with lower regulations and standards, which means they may contain harmful chemicals and additives. In fact, a study by Cancer Council Victoria found that one in five cigarettes purchased online contained more than 23 times the allowable level of lead, and some also contained asbestos. This can have serious health consequences for smokers, including an increased risk of lung cancer and other respiratory diseases.
Moreover, purchasing cheap cigarettes also supports the illegal tobacco trade, which has been linked to organized crime and other illegal activities. This includes human trafficking, money laundering, and funding terrorist activities. By buying these cigarettes, you are indirectly supporting these criminal activities, as the profits from the sale of these cigarettes often go towards them.
Another consequence of buying cheap cigarettes in Australia is the potential legal implications. Many of these websites are operating illegally, and purchasing from them could result in fines or even criminal charges. In Australia, it is illegal to purchase cigarettes from any source other than a licensed retailer. This includes purchasing them online from overseas websites. So not only are you risking your health and supporting illegal activities, but you are also breaking the law.
In addition to these risks, there is also the issue of underage smoking. With the rise of cheap cigarettes, it is now easier for minors to access them. These websites do not have the same age verification systems as legitimate retailers, making it easier for underage smokers to purchase cigarettes. This has serious implications for public health and the future generations of Australia.
So, what can be done to combat the issue of cheap cigarettes in Australia? One solution is stricter regulations and enforcement of laws on online cigarettes sales. The Australian Border Force has already taken steps to crack down on the illegal tobacco trade, but more needs to be done to address the issue. Another solution is to educate the public about the dangers of purchasing cheap cigarettes. Many people may not be aware of the risks associated with these cigarettes, and by raising awareness, we can discourage people from purchasing them.
In conclusion, while the promise of cheap cigarettes may be tempting, it is important to consider the potential risks and consequences that come with it. Purchasing cheap cigarettes not only poses a threat to your health but also supports illegal activities and undermines government efforts to reduce smoking rates. As a society, we need to take a stand against these products and work towards finding better, more legitimate ways to reduce the costs of cigarettes in Australia. Remember, the health and well-being of ourselves and future generations should always be prioritized over saving a few dollars.