Smoking and tobacco

In Australia smoking is the largest contributor to preventable death and is known to increase the risk of lung cancer, cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and many other illnesses.

Numerous tobacco reforms have been implemented in Victoria in recent years as part of the Tobacco Act 1987.

These reforms include:

Investigated by local Council

• The introduction of plain packaging requirements for tobacco products
• A ban on displaying tobacco products (except for certified tobacconists)
• Tough fines for the sale of cigarettes to minors
• Smoking bans within 10 metres of outdoor public children’s playground equipment, skate parks, swimming pool grounds and sporting venues during organised underage sporting events
• Smoking bans on the grounds of and within 4 metres of entrances to childcare centres, kindergartens and schools
• Smoking bans within 4 metres of children’s indoor play centres and certain Victorian government buildings
• Smoking restrictions in licensed premises and outdoor dining and drinking areas
• Smoke free workplaces