Reading time: About 7 minutes | Posted: March 11, 2026
Let me tell you about the time I bought cigarettes from seven different stores across three states just to compare prices. Yes, I’m that person. Yes, my partner thought I was having a midlife crisis. No, I don’t regret it.
Here’s what I learned: prices vary wildly. And not in a “oh, that’s interesting” way. In a “you’re literally wasting hundreds of dollars” way.
The Price Reality
NSW and VIC are the cheapest. I’m talking $37-38 for Marlboro Red. Why? Competition. Lots of stores, lots of options, prices get driven down.
QLD and SA are in the middle. $38-39. Not terrible, not great.
WA and TAS? Ouch. $40-41. It’s the tyranny of distance, mate. Everything costs more when you have to ship it across the country.
NT? Don’t get me started. $43. I’m sorry, Northern Territory. You deserve better.
Online vs Retail
Here’s what you pay at 7-Eleven: $42 for Marlboro Red. Here’s what you pay online from us: $30. That’s not a typo. That’s a 29% difference.
Why? No physical store rent. Fewer staff. Bulk buying power. We pass the savings on. You win. Everyone’s happy.
Full Transparency
This comparison took hours of manual research. AI helped organize the data, but the legwork? All me. All real. All so you don’t have to waste your Saturday driving around comparing prices.
Prices are indicative. They change. But the patterns don’t.
Source: February 2026 retailer surveys, ATO data