Smoking ban welcomed by Monash Council

Published on 23 August 2015

Monash Council welcomes today’s announcement by the Victorian Government that it will introduce a ban on smoking in outdoor dining areas.

Monash Mayor Paul Klisaris said the Council had been calling for the ban for many years, on behalf of local families concerned that their children have to breathe in second hand smoke while trying to enjoy a family meal out.

“Today’s announcement is great news for our community, as soon everyone will be able to enjoy eating outdoors in places like Eaton Mall in Oakleigh (pictured) and Kingsway in Glen Waverley,” Cr Klisaris said.

“Many families have told us that they think twice about eating outdoors because they do not want their children to be exposed to second hand smoke.”

In 2012, about 75% of surveyed Monash residents said they supported a ban on smoking in outdoor dining areas.

In its announcement today, the government said it would consult with businesses ahead of introducing a ban on smoking in outdoor dining areas on 1 August 2017.

Cr Klisaris said Victoria was the last state in Australia to introduce or announce a ban on smoking in outdoor dining areas.

“I would prefer to see the ban introduced sooner, but I accept that there is a need to consult with businesses and give them time to adjust,” Cr Klisaris said.

“I encourage people who smoke to start adjusting now by choosing not to smoke in areas where other people are trying to enjoy their meals,” he said.

“It may not be illegal at the moment for people to light up in an outdoor eating area but it is inconsiderate.”

Cr Klisaris said Monash Council had been a leading proponent of a ban on smoking in outdoor dining areas, having first written in 2011 to the former Victorian Government requesting that a ban be introduced and having written to the current government this February calling for the ban to be announced as a priority.

Media Contact: Jo Robertson 0418 391 979 or joanne.robertson@monash.vic.gov.au