Australia mulls smoking ban

2004-10-12 11:09

Sydney - Pubs, clubs and other licenced premises in most of Australia will be smoke-free by July 2007, officials announced on Tuesday.

The state governments in Victoria and New South Wales, the two most populous states, have joined Queensland in drafting anti-smoking legislation that relegates tobacco addicts to the periphery of some licences premises.

"Smokers will still be able to smoke and drink in outdoor and non-enclosed areas of a venue such as a beer garden," New South Wales government spokesperson Frank Sartor said. "Today's decision is about protecting the long-term health of club and pub workers."

The restrictions in Queensland are more drastic. Next year in Queensland lighting up on popular beaches, sports stadiums, near children's playgrounds or on the pavement outside buildings will earn a stiff fine. By 2006, all pubs, clubs and outdoor eating places will be absolutely smoke free.

"Not everyone is going to be in love with this, but this is about saving lives," Queensland premier Peter Beattie said of the most draconian legislation proposed in Australia.

The first anti-smoking law was passed in Australia 95 years ago. There are now bans on all forms of tobacco advertising. Australia has one of the lowest rates of smoking in the world.

While three-quarters of men were smokers half a century ago the rate is now nearer a quarter. Some 23% of women smoke, against 26% in 1947.

Earlier this year the federal government decided to follow Canada and plaster nauseating anti-smoking graphics on cigarette packets.

- SAPA