Smoking in New South Wales has now been banned in new locations including playgrounds, transport stops and swimming pools.
Recent amendments to the Smoke-free Environment Act mean that from this week smoking has been banned:
· Within 10 metres of children’s play equipment
· At swimming pool complexes
· In spectator areas of sports grounds or other recreational areas
· On railway platforms, light rail stations and ferry wharves
· At bus stops and taxi ranks
· Within four metres of a pedestrian access point to a public building
Helen Skinner, Health Minister, said the NSW Tobacco Strategy is one of the most advanced in the country.
“Smoking-related illness accounts for around 5,200 deaths and 44,000 hospitalisations per year in NSW and costs about $8 billion annually,” Mrs Skinner said.
“Taking steps to limit people’s exposure to second-hand smoke in outdoor public places is a key step in efforts to minimise tobacco smoking in our society.
“Smoking is the leading cause of premature death and disability in NSW and we hope to prevent those who have quit smoking from relapsing.”
The ban on smoking in public places will be extended to commercial outdoor dining areas in licensed premises, restaurants and cafes from July 2015.
“The NSW Government has already demonstrated its commitment to reducing smoking and its impact in our community, by establishing ambitious targets to continue to reduce smoking,” Mrs Skinner said.
Community education materials will be available in printed form and online at health.nsw.gov.au. Enquiries in relation to the new laws can be directed to the Tobacco Information Line on 1800 357 412. Anyone wishing to quit smoking should contact the NSW Quitline on 13 78 48.
