The Most Popular Cigarette Brands in Australia (2025 Update)
Introduction: Smoking Trends in Modern Australia
Let’s be real — smoking isn’t as common as it used to be in Australia. With strict regulations, plain packaging, and jaw-dropping prices, many Aussies are either cutting down or switching to alternatives like vapes. Still, some cigarette brands have stood the test of time, maintaining loyal followings and dominating shelves in 2025.
In this updated list, we’ll dive into Australia’s most popular cigarette brands, exploring why smokers still reach for these names despite the odds.
1.0 Understanding Australia’s Tobacco Landscape
1.1 Government Regulations and Plain Packaging
Some of the strictest tobacco laws in the world are found in Australia. Since plain packaging was introduced in 2012, every pack looks nearly identical—olive green, covered in health warnings. Branding takes a backseat, forcing cigarette makers to rely on taste, price, and reputation.
1.2 Taxation and Pricing Impact
Cigarettes in Australia are famously expensive. A pack can cost over AUD $40, thanks to yearly tax increases. This high cost pushes smokers to look for value brands or reduce consumption altogether.
1.3 The Shift Toward Alternatives
E-cigarettes, disposable vapes, and nicotine pouches are taking centre stage. Still, traditional smokers remain loyal to their brands, especially those that deliver that signature “Aussie” flavor or smooth draw they’ve grown up with.
2.0 Criteria for Ranking Popular Cigarette Brands
Before listing the top contenders, it’s only fair to explain what makes a cigarette brand “popular” in today’s market.
2.1 Market Share and Sales Data
Brands that dominate retail and convenience store sales in 2025 rank highest on our list.
2.2 Consumer Loyalty and Brand Recognition
Even without flashy packaging, brand reputation still matters. Some names, like Winfield or Marlboro, carry decades of smoker loyalty.
2.3 Flavor, Strength, and Experience
Finally, the actual smoking experience—smoothness, throat hit, and aroma—still defines which brands people stick with.
3.0 Top 10 Most Popular Cigarette Brands in Australia (2025)
1. Winfield – The Timeless Aussie Classic
Winfield has long been Australia’s top-selling cigarette brand, loved for its familiar taste and down-to-earth vibe. It’s a true “everyman’s smoke,” known for its consistency and mid-range pricing. Even after all these years, Winfield Blue remains a favorite among loyal Aussie smokers.
2. Marlboro – The Global Icon That Still Dominates
Marlboro might be American by origin, but it’s huge in Australia too. Known for its strong, rich flavor, Marlboro Red appeals to smokers who want that bold punch. It’s pricier than most, but that iconic name still carries serious weight.
3. Peter Jackson – Smooth and Reliable
Peter Jackson is another Australian staple—trusted, smooth, and easygoing. Its mellow profile makes it ideal for daily smokers who prefer something less harsh. The brand’s “PJ Blue” and “PJ Gold” varieties remain top choices.
4. Dunhill – Premium Taste for the Sophisticated Smoker
Dunhill has a reputation for being classy. With its refined tobacco blend and smooth pull, it attracts smokers who value quality over quantity. Despite the cost, Dunhill’s premium feel keeps it high on the popularity charts.
5. Longbeach – The Budget-Friendly Favorite
When cigarette prices keep climbing, Longbeach offers a lifeline. It’s one of the most affordable brands in Australia, yet it delivers a surprisingly solid smoke. Perfect for those who want a decent puff without draining their wallets.
6. Benson & Hedges – A Touch of Luxury
Benson & Hedges has always been associated with sophistication. Even under plain packaging, smokers recognize its distinctive taste and rich aroma. It’s often considered a “special occasion” smoke—luxurious and satisfying.
7. Pall Mall – Value and Variety Combined
Pall Mall stands out for offering both affordability and quality. With a variety of options—Reds, Blues, and Menthols—it caters to a broad audience. It’s especially popular among ex-Marlboro fans looking for a cheaper but comparable experience.
8. Rothmans – Heritage Meets Modern Appeal
Rothmans has deep roots in Australia’s tobacco scene. Its modern blends offer a smoother profile than older versions, making it popular among mature smokers who appreciate tradition but want a cleaner finish.
9. Horizon – For the Casual, Everyday Smoker
Horizon is a steady performer. It doesn’t scream luxury or boldness—it’s just a solid, no-nonsense smoke. Known for mildness and affordability, Horizon suits casual smokers who prefer a lighter draw.
10. Camel – Bold, Distinct, and Internationally Loved
Camel’s Turkish-blended tobacco gives it a distinctive, slightly spicy flavor. Although less common than Winfield or Marlboro, Camel has a devoted following among smokers who crave something different.
4.0 Emerging Alternatives: Vapes and Nicotine Pouches
4.1 Disposable Vapes Taking the Market by Storm
With brands like Elf Bar and Lana Ultra gaining traction, disposable vapes are reshaping nicotine consumption in Australia. Many smokers are switching due to lower costs and more variety in flavors—from fruity to minty.
4.2 Nicotine Pouches: The Smokeless Future
Nicotine pouches are becoming the go-to for people who want nicotine without smoke, smell, or hassle. They’re discreet, clean, and legal in many regions where vapes face restrictions.
5.0 How Smoking Preferences Have Changed Since 2020
5.1 Shift Toward Lower Tar and Nicotine Options
Smokers today tend to prefer lighter blends or low-nicotine variants, aiming to reduce health risks while still enjoying the ritual.
5.2 Younger Generations Choosing Vapes
Gen Z and millennials are ditching cigarettes for vape devices. The shift isn’t just about cost—it’s about customization, convenience, and variety.
6.0 Cigarette Pricing in 2025: The Cost of Lighting Up
6.1 Average Prices by Brand
By 2025, a standard pack of 25 cigarettes can range from AUD $38 to $47, depending on the brand. Winfield sits in the mid-range, while Dunhill and Benson & Hedges command premium prices.
6.2 How Taxes Drive Consumer Choices
The Australian government’s tobacco tax policy continues to be a major factor. High taxes have driven more people toward cheaper brands—or away from smoking entirely.
7.0 The Future of Cigarettes in Australia
7.1 Will Traditional Smoking Fade Out?
With vapes, nicotine pouches, and strict regulations, traditional smoking faces an uncertain future. However, long-time smokers still cling to the ritual, keeping these classic brands alive.
7.2 The Rise of Health-Conscious Consumption
Even smokers today are more health-aware. Many opt for “light” versions or switch between cigarettes and vapes to cut down on tar exposure.
Conclusion
Australia’s cigarette market in 2025 is a tale of resilience. Despite taxes, regulations, and a vaping boom, iconic brands like Winfield, Marlboro, and Peter Jackson still stand strong. Whether it’s nostalgia, flavor, or loyalty, smokers continue to find comfort in these classic names.
The future might lean toward smoke-free alternatives, but one thing’s for sure—Australia’s cigarette culture isn’t fading away just yet.
FAQs
Q1: What is the most popular cigarette brand in Australia in 2025?
A1: Winfield remains the top-selling cigarette brand, known for its consistent flavor and local identity.
Q2: Why are cigarettes so expensive in Australia?
A2: High tobacco taxes and strict regulations make cigarettes among the most expensive in the world, averaging over AUD $40 per pack.
Q3: Are flavored cigarettes still available in Australia?
A3: No, flavored cigarettes are banned. Only standard tobacco flavors are allowed under Australian law.
Q4: What are the best alternatives to cigarettes in 2025?
A4: Disposable vapes (like Elf Bar and Lana Ultra) and nicotine pouches are increasingly popular alternatives.
Q5: Is smoking still legal in Australia?
A5: Yes, but with heavy restrictions. Smoking is banned in most public places, and sales are tightly controlled with plain packaging and high taxes.