How much does smoking cost per year in Australia?

Australia has some of the world's highest tobacco prices because of tobacco excise. At around $50 a pack, a pack-a-day habit (about 7 packs a week) costs roughly $350 a week, or about $18,200 a year. Over 5 years that's more than $91,000, and over 10 years it's over $182,000 spent on cigarettes alone.

How much could I save by quitting smoking?

It depends on your habit, but the savings are large. A pack-a-day smoker on $50 packs frees up about $18,200 a year. If you quit and invested that money at a return of around 8% a year, it could grow to roughly $277,000 over 10 years. On top of the money, quitting brings major health benefits that start within days of your last cigarette.

Where can I get help to quit?

Free, confidential support is available across Australia. Call Quitline on 13 7848 (13 QUIT) to speak with a trained counsellor, or talk to your GP or pharmacist about nicotine replacement therapy and other quit options. Quit attempts are far more likely to succeed with support than going it alone.

Cost of Smoking Calculator

See what smoking or vaping costs you per year in Australia — and what the same money could grow to if you quit and invested it instead.

Last verified: 5 May 2026

What does smoking really cost you?

Australia has some of the world's highest tobacco prices, so a daily habit drains serious money — and that's before the health toll. Quitting frees up that cash, and invested it can compound into a meaningful sum. Free support: Quitline 13 7848. Source: ASIC MoneySmart.

Worked example. 7 packs a week at $50 = about $18,200/year. Quit and invest it at 8% instead, and that's roughly $277,000 after 10 years.

General information and estimates only — not financial, tax, or legal advice. Always verify with a licensed adviser or the ATO.

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