The Perennial Question: Why Smoke When Cigarettes Cost So Much in Australia?

It's a question that often arises: given the high cost of cigarettes in Australia, why would anyone smoke? This article delves into the factors that drive smoking behaviors, highlighting addiction, affordability through the black market, and socio-economic factors.

The High Cost of Cigarettes and Smoking Behavior

In Australia, the cost of a pack of cigarettes has skyrocketed to around A$40, yet many individuals continue to smoke. The cost of cigarettes has risen significantly over the years, yet the smoking community remains robust. This raises the question of why people continue to smoke despite the economic burden.

Smoking Due to Addiction

The primary reason people continue to smoke, particularly in countries where prices have risen sharply, is addiction. Nicotine is highly addictive, and many individuals struggle to quit despite knowing the health risks. Additionally, the perception that smoking is a statement of affluence can also be a factor, as seen in the following quote: "A dollar a ciggie, No wucking furries, mate. I have the money."

The Role of the Black Market

In countries like Australia, where black market cigarettes and vaping products are prevalent, the cost factor is significantly reduced. Black market cigarettes not only provide a cheaper alternative but also maintain accessibility. Nicotine vapes are also illegal in most states unless prescribed by a doctor, which is rarely the case. Pharmacies are also reluctant to fill non-prescription nicotine vapes, thereby fueling the black market for these products.

Perception of Affluence and Cultural Narratives

Some individuals smoke as a symbol of their financial stability. This mindset can be seen in the statement, "A dollar a ciggie, No wucking furries, mate. I have the money." This attitude reflects a cultural narrative that smoking is a indulgence and a sign of wealth. However, this perception can be misleading and does not reflect the broader picture of smoking habits and public health.

Government Policies and Public Health

Government policies aimed at reducing smoking rates, such as high taxation on cigarettes, can create a black market and contribute to the perception that cigarettes are a statement of wealth. Furthermore, the way governments handle such policies can exacerbate the issue. For instance, the auto-renewal of cigarette taxes without an upper cap can result in a continuous increase in costs, which can drive individuals towards the black market.

Personal Experiences and Health Impacts

Personal stories, like the one shared below, add a layer of emotional and health impact to the discussion:

"I started smoking when cigarettes were about 37 cents for a pack of 20. When I quit 31 years later, they were around 3.00/pack. This was in 2007, and I always had an unspoken 'I quit soon enough not to do permanent damage' when I saw a smoker. I was very, very wrong. Eleven years after putting down my last cigarette and at age 57, I am on full-time supplemental oxygen, and I could have purchased a small island from the money I spent on nicotine."

This personal account highlights the devastating long-term health effects of smoking and emphasizes the importance of quitting as soon as possible.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

While the cost of cigarettes in Australia has risen dramatically, the reasons why people continue to smoke are multifaceted. Addiction, affordability through the black market, and socio-economic perceptions all play a role. Governments must carefully consider these factors when implementing policies to reduce smoking rates, ensuring that such measures do not inadvertently create a black market or further exploit addicted individuals.

Keywords

cigarette cost, addiction, black market