I haven't found a local that sells filters yet. Not that I've tried. This past week after running out of unused filters I used the same one a few times a day. It doesn't tear when rinsed under water or drying. The coffee filters through just like with an unused filter.
So if you're in a pinch just reuse the last one.
You can buy a steel filter. I lost mine. I also found it filters more slowly than the paper filters and I was forced to use the press/plunger which I didn't want to do. I only use the plunger to press the last of the coffee through and dry out the ground. The two aeropress we have, original and aeropress go, both make a full mug of coffee if you fill the water to the rim (or top the water up a bit for large mugs).
I've only used an aeropress at my friends place I was house sitting in London. When I ran out of filters I went and bought him (me) a Bialetti percolator.
Elegant solution. I'd probably buy a moka pot if I was starting out but we're just used to the aeropress now. Kinda funny how that happens.
Strange, found the taste/texture was definitely worse when I used the metal filter and the water drained faster. Also pretty sure you can order paper filters from https://alternativebrewing.com.au/ though
Maybe I was doing it wrong or maybe the filter I got as a present was different to the one you had.
I believe there are also cloth filters you can buy from them as well! Last through multiple washes and can be frozen to preserve them if you don't use them every day!