As a resident of Australia, I have always been familiar with the strict regulations surrounding cigarettes in our country. From plain packaging to the high taxes, the government has continuously implemented measures to discourage smoking and promote public health. However, as a frequent smoker, I have noticed the dwindling availability of menthol cigarettes in the market. This sparked my curiosity and led me to research about the current status of menthol cigarettes in Australia. In this article, I aim to share my findings and provide a comprehensive guide about buying menthol cigarettes in Australia.
First and foremost, it is important to understand the reason behind the decline in availability of menthol cigarettes in Australia. In 2012, the Australian government introduced the Tobacco Plain Packaging Act, requiring all cigarette brands to be sold in a standardised packaging with graphic health warnings. This move was intended to reduce the appeal of cigarettes, particularly to the youth. As a result, all cigarette packs now come in drab olive green packaging with graphic images of the harmful effects of smoking. This meant that cigarette brands can no longer use their trademarks, logos, or marketing materials to differentiate themselves from other brands. Menthol cigarettes were not exempted from this regulation and therefore lost their iconic green packaging and the word “menthol” on their labels. This made it challenging for smokers to distinguish menthol cigarettes from non-menthol ones, causing a decrease in demand and availability in the market.
However, despite these strict regulations, buying menthol cigarettes in Australia is still possible. The first option is to purchase menthol cigarettes from licensed tobacco shops. These shops are authorised to sell cigarettes with the original packaging before the plain packaging law was implemented. However, be prepared to pay a higher price as these shops are subject to higher taxes and import duties. Another option is to buy from international online retailers. Many websites offer menthol cigarettes for purchase, but it is important to note that these may come with additional shipping fees and may not always guarantee the timely delivery of the product.
Another aspect to consider when purchasing menthol cigarettes in Australia is the legality of importing them. According to the Australian Border Force, it is illegal to import tobacco products, including cigarettes, without a valid permit or licence. This applies to both personal and commercial imports. This means that ordering menthol cigarettes from international online retailers may put you at risk of having the package seized by Australian customs. If caught, you may face hefty fines or prosecution. It is therefore important to thoroughly research the legality of importing cigarettes before making a purchase.
If you are looking for a more convenient and legal option to buy menthol cigarettes in Australia, consider switching to menthol roll-your-own (RYO) tobacco. RYO tobacco is not subject to the plain packaging law and therefore still comes in the original packaging and labelling. This makes it easier to differentiate between menthol and non-menthol options. RYO tobacco can be purchased from various tobacco shops or online retailers and is typically cheaper compared to pre-rolled menthol cigarettes.
It is also worth noting that the availability of menthol cigarettes in Australia may vary depending on your location. While larger cities may have a wider selection, regional areas may have limited options. This is due to the stricter laws and regulations surrounding tobacco products in regional areas. It is therefore recommended to check with your local tobacco shop or online retailers for the availability of menthol cigarettes in your area.
Aside from the availability of menthol cigarettes, it is also important to understand the potential health risks associated with smoking menthol cigarettes. Menthol cigarettes contain menthol, a substance that gives a cooling sensation and flavour to the smoke. Some studies have shown that the cooling sensation may make it easier for individuals to inhale the smoke deeper and therefore increase the amount of nicotine and other harmful substances inhaled. Additionally, menthol has been found to have a numbing effect on the throat and may make it easier for smokers to tolerate the harshness of the smoke. This can lead to prolonged smoking and increased health risks.
In conclusion, while the availability of menthol cigarettes in Australia may have decreased, it is still possible to purchase them legally. The most convenient options include buying from licensed tobacco shops or switching to menthol RYO tobacco. However, it is important to understand and weigh the potential health risks associated with smoking menthol cigarettes. As a responsible smoker, it is crucial to adhere to the laws and regulations surrounding tobacco products in Australia and to make informed decisions about our smoking habits.