Push for smoke-free zones in Geelong gains momentum

A peak anti-smoking body has called for smoking bans across Geelong, with councils weighing in. TAKE OUR POLL

Quit Victoria has called for smoking to be banned in key spots around Geelong.

City of Greater Geelong city services director` Guy Wilson-Browne said the implementation of smoke and vape free areas may be considered as part of the review of local laws in 2023.

Sarah White.

Mr Wilson-Browne said while council did not have specific ‘no smoking’ zones, it monitored compliance at places including outdoor dining areas, and entrances to schools.

Quit Victoria director Sarah White said Little Malop St would be a “really obvious” place to make smoke-free, and the alleyways that run off it.

“It would be absolutely fantastic to see the waterfront area smoke-free, too, which would be in keeping with the council’s aim to have a vibrant public space for all to enjoy,” Dr White said.

“Smoke- and vape-free areas help prevent children from seeing smoking and vaping as something to aspire to doing, and they help people who are trying to quit or stay quit, by reducing their exposure to triggers to smoke or vape.

Geelong waterfront could become smoke-free. Picture: Mark Wilson

“These areas also improve amenity for visitors and reduce litter.

“Any measure that reduced the number of discarded cigarette butts in the beautiful Geelong waterfront area would, I hope, be viewed favourably by the City of Greater Geelong.”

It comes after it was revealed in Melbourne, smoking and vaping outside transport hubs and council buildings, such as the Town Hall, could be prohibited.

The City of Melbourne already bans smoking in 13 areas across the city, including Bourke Street Mall.

The municipality is looking at whether smoke-free zones should extend to entry points to transport hubs and council-owned and managed properties.

A Borough of Queenscliffe spokesman said council officers recently completed an audit of smoke-free areas and ordered additional signage to assist further with public education and compliance.

“These areas include locations such as playgrounds, skate parks, schools and beaches – consistent with regulations provided by the Department of Health,” he said.

“Officers are working directly with local schools to assist them in procuring ‘no smoking or vaping’ signage from the department.

Little Malop St and the entries to the Moorabool St transport hub could be targeted. Picture: Alison Wynd

“We’re also investigating recycling solutions for discarded vapes, which qualify as e-waste due to their internal properties.”

Surf Coast Shire general manager community life Gail Gatt said under local law, a person must not smoke on the sand area of any beach within the municipal district; within four metres of a municipal building; within the signposted boundary of a council-run or funded event; or within 10 metres of a sports ground.

“Council’s Community Amenity Local Law 2021 includes smoke free areas, in addition to state government requirements,” she said.

“As the local law does not specifically reference vaping, there are no current plans to

install vaping signage.
“However we acknowledge Quit Victoria’s concerns about this emerging practice and will consider amending our local law accordingly as part of the next review.”

Originally published as Push for smoke-free zones in Geelong gains momentum