Nine things you'll gain from quitting smoking

Last updated October 2025

Read time 3 minutes

Read about some of the benefits you'll get when you stop smoking. Quitting can be hard, but you’ve got so many reasons to keep trying!

A pregnant woman smiles at her husband

1. Improve your health

The health benefits of quitting smoking begin just six hours after your last cigarette! And the longer you stay quit, the healthier you’ll be.

2. Save money

Want an extra $9,000 a year? If you smoke a 20-pack a day, that’s how much you’d save if you quit. Work out how much you could save – it’s a powerful motivator.

3. Regain control

At times you might feel like smoking controls you. Quitting can give you a sense of freedom, lift your mood and boost your confidence about not smoking, as well as confidence in other areas of your life.

4. Positive role model

Quitting sets a great example for the children, family, friends and others around you. It can even reduce the chances of them taking up smoking themselves.

5. Family time

Quitting can give you more energy to play with your kids and more money to spend on them, too.

6. Protect others

Second-hand smoke can harm others. Quitting is the only way to protect your family and friends.

7. Less hassle

Disapproving looks or comments from people who don't smoke can make you feel embarrassed or judged. You might even try to keep your smoking a secret.

It’s also a hassle having to make sure you have enough cigarettes with you or enough money to buy them when you run out.

8. Healthier appearance

Smoking can age your skin. It also makes your clothes, hair, house and car smell. When you quit, you prevent further teeth staining, and the nicotine stains on your fingers fade. The skin of your face may show fewer signs of ageing. Your house and your car will no longer smell like an ashtray.

9. Better surgery outcomes

If you’re having surgery, quitting can lower your risk of complications and help with recovery and healing. Your surgeon should talk to you about the risks of not quitting.

Need support now?

Contact Quitline

Speak directly with a trained quit specialist. Our counsellors are available to provide immediate support, personalised quit plans, and answer all your questions.

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