Smoking, vaping to be banned in outdoor areas as of March 2024

Smokers and vapers are set to be banned from more places under tough new laws to protect public health coming in early in 2024.

Smoking and vaping will be banned in more outdoor areas under new regulations coming into effect next year. Picture: Sam Wundke.

Smokers and vapers are set to cop a heavy blow in the New Year as the state government brings in tough new laws to protect the community from second hand smoke.

As of March 1, 2024, smoking and vaping will be banned in outdoor areas such as near beach jetties and patrol flags, schools and children’s sporting events, and shopping centre entrances.

It will also be banned at major events, at both public and private hospitals and within outdoor public swimming facilities.

On the spot fines of $105 and prosecution penalties of $750 will be issues to those caught smoking or vaping in prohibited areas.

Smoking and vaping will be banned in outdoor areas including near jetties and patrolled beach areas. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Morgan Sette

It comes as part of a national reform to ban vaping across the country, with disposable vapes set to be banned countrywide as of January 1, 2024.

South Australians are being encouraged to make a New Year’s resolution to quit smoking or vaping, with resources available through Quitline or the Be Smoke Free website.

The new smoke free zones join an existing list of smoke-free outdoor areas, which include dining areas, playgrounds and in public transport shelters.

An advertising campaign will begin on January 28 across social media, radio, billboards and buses to encourage people to quit the habit for good and educate them about the new bans.

Health minister Chris Picton said there’s no better time to quit smoking than New Year’s.

“With new smoking and vaping restrictions coming in, there’s never been a better time to make a New Year’s resolution to quit this week,” he said.

“Smoking is our biggest preventable killer and cause of disease and the rise of vaping among young people is really concerning. We need to do more to stop the devastating effects, particularly on children.”

SA Health Minister Chris Picton said New Year’s is a perfect time to quit vaping. NCA NewsWire / David Mariuz

It comes as part of a national reform to ban vaping in 2024. Picture: NCA Newswire /Gaye Gerard

Consultations have also taken place to discuss the possible outlawing of cigarette vending machines, and to increase penalties to those selling tobacco and vapes to minors.

The state government is looking to double the current penalties for those caught doing the wrong thing, which will see fines increase from $1200 to $2400, and would raise prosecution penalties for businesses raised to $40,000.

Acting interim state director at Drug and Alcohol Services South Australia Dr Victoria Cock said passive smoking is harmful, especially to younger people.

“Passive smoking can cause disease and harm just as actively smoking and vaping can,” she said.

“These new measures are a positive step to keep the community safe from passive smoking and e-cigarette vapour.”

Information on quitting smoking can be found on the website besmokefree.com.au or by calling the Quitline on 13 78 48.

Further information and resources are available on the SA Health website.