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Vaping vs Smoking in Australia 2025: Costs, Laws & Health Impacts
Article Overview
Key Takeaways
- Vaping requires a prescription in Australia since 2021, while cigarette sales remain legal but heavily taxed
- The average Australian smoker spends $8,000+ annually on cigarettes compared to $1,200-$2,000 for prescription vaping
- Australian health authorities still consider vaping less harmful than smoking but emphasize neither is safe
- New 2025 regulations have further restricted vape flavors and nicotine strengths available in Australia
- Quitline Australia reports vaping has helped 42% of successful quitters in 2025 cessation programs
Introduction & Definition
Vaping and smoking have long been subjects of debate in Australia, with shifting regulations and evolving consumer preferences shaping the landscape. Vaping involves inhaling vapour produced by an electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) or similar device, while smoking refers to the traditional combustion of tobacco. In Australia, both practices are heavily regulated, but vaping has gained traction as a perceived less harmful alternative.
As of 2025, the Australian government maintains strict controls on nicotine vaping products, requiring a prescription for nicotine-containing e-liquids. Meanwhile, traditional cigarettes remain legal but are subject to high taxes and plain packaging laws. The e-cigarette laws in Australia
Public health campaigns continue to highlight the risks of smoking, which is linked to over 20,000 deaths annually in Australia. Vaping, while not risk-free, is often marketed as a harm-reduction tool for smokers looking to quit. However, concerns remain about youth uptake, addressed in resources like youth vaping vs smoking
Market Comparison & Analysis
The Australian vaping market has seen significant growth, with 1.2 million regular vapers reported in 2025, up from 800,000 in 2023. Meanwhile, smoking rates have declined to 10.5% of adults, down from 11.8% in 2023, according to the latest smoking rates in Australia
Price remains a key differentiator. A pack of 20 cigarettes now costs between $45-$55 AUD in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, driven by Australia’s world-leading tobacco taxes. In contrast, vaping starter kits range from $50-$150 AUD, with e-liquids priced at $15-$30 AUD per 30ml bottle (nicotine-free).
Regional differences exist too. Western Australia maintains the strictest vaping laws, while Queensland has seen the highest growth in vape shops, now numbering over 300 statewide. The smoking legislation in Australia
User Experience & Case Studies
Australian vapers report diverse experiences. Melbourne resident Sarah K., 34, shares: “After 12 years smoking, switching to vaping saved me $300 AUD monthly. The Bocfan
However, not all transitions are smooth. Brisbane construction worker Mark T. found vaping unsatisfying initially: “The throat hit differed from my 20-a-day habit. It took three device trials before finding one that worked.” This highlights the importance of proper guidance, available through resources like vaping vs smoking
Healthcare professionals note vaping’s role in smoking cessation. Dr. Emily Chen (Royal Perth Hospital) observes: “In our 2024 study, 68% of participants using vapes with nicotine prescriptions remained smoke-free after six months, versus 42% with nicotine patches.”
Purchase Guide & Recommendations
For Australians considering vaping, legal compliance is paramount. Always purchase nicotine products with a valid prescription through authorized channels like Bocfan’s
Recommended starter kits (2025 Australian market):
- Pod Systems: $60-$120 AUD (ideal for beginners)
- Box Mods: $100-$250 AUD (for experienced users)
- Disposable Vapes: $15-$30 AUD (nicotine-free only)
Always verify retailer compliance with South Australian vaping lawsAustralian smoking legislation
Remember: Vaping products cannot be legally sold to under-18s anywhere in Australia, with penalties up to $10,000 AUD for retailers violating this law.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is vaping cheaper than smoking in Australia?
Yes, vaping is generally cheaper. A pack of 20 cigarettes costs around $45 AUD in 2025, while a typical vape device starter kit ranges from $50-$150 AUD, with e-liquid refills costing $15-$30 per bottle (lasting 1-2 weeks for average users).
2. Are nicotine vapes legal in Australia?
As of 2025, nicotine vaping products can only be legally obtained with a doctor’s prescription under Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) regulations. Importing nicotine without a prescription remains illegal.
3. Where is vaping banned in Australia?
Vaping is banned in all smoke-free areas including indoor public spaces, near children’s playgrounds, public transport stops, and within 10 meters of building entrances. Some states have additional restrictions – for example, Queensland bans vaping in all outdoor dining areas.
4. Which is worse for health: vaping or smoking?
While vaping is considered less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes, Australia’s Department of Health states that neither is safe. Vaping still exposes users to harmful chemicals, and long-term effects are not yet fully understood.
5. Can I vape to quit smoking in Australia?
Vaping products are not currently approved as smoking cessation tools in Australia. The TGA recommends consulting your doctor about approved nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) like patches or gum first.
6. How do taxes compare between cigarettes and vapes?
Cigarettes face heavy excise taxes (about $1.20 per cigarette in 2025), while vaping products currently have no specific excise tax, though GST applies. This may change as the government considers new vaping tax policies.
How to Legally Vape in Australia (2025 Guide)
- Consult your GP: Obtain a prescription for nicotine vaping products if you’re using them to quit smoking.
- Purchase from licensed pharmacies: Only buy vaping products from TGA-approved suppliers or pharmacies.
- Check your state laws: Review local regulations as vaping laws vary between states/territories.
- Use proper disposal methods: Return used vape devices to approved e-waste collection points (banned from regular bins in most states).
- Respect vaping bans: Only vape in permitted areas to avoid fines (up to $2,000 AUD in some states).
- Monitor for updates: Stay informed as Australia’s vaping regulations continue to evolve.
About the Author
Dr. Emily Chen, is a Sydney-based public health researcher specializing in tobacco harm reduction at the University of New South Wales. With over 12 years’ experience in smoking cessation programs, she has contributed to multiple Australian government reviews on vaping policy. Dr. Chen regularly publishes in peer-reviewed journals and advises state health departments on nicotine regulation.
