Tougher new anti-smoking regulations come into play in WA
Tough new smoking regulations in Western Australia have begun this month with pubs and public buildings facing $1,000 fines if caught breaking the new laws.
Revised tobacco legislation prohibits smokers from lighting up with five metres of a public building, including pubs, shops, hospitals and airports. Another regulation will penalise someone who smokes with 10 metres of an air-conditioning intake for a public building.
There will be a six-month grace period while the Department of Health runs an education campaign, with infractions to be enforced by local councils and the Transport and Health departments.
“It is planned to take an educational approach to support these regulatory changes over the first six months, to allow retailers to make the necessary adjustments,” said Health Minister Roger Cook.
However, AHA WA CEO Brad Woods said the hospitality industry has had no input into these new measures.
“The tightening regulations come as Western Australia looks to build on its economy, as mining and tourism downturns appear to be turning north again,” he said. “As in other states, the smoking restrictions will likely affect venues with limited outdoor areas and options.”
Sheridan Randall, 21st March 2019
