There are laws surrounding the use and sale of tobacco, as well as, where and when smoking, the use of e cigarettes and vaping is permitted.
In Australia, smoking kills around 15,000 people every year. Tobacco causes more illness and death than any other drug.
The Victorian Government has introduced smoking bans to help protect the health of the community.
At the Council we play an important role in protecting the health of the community through actions such as enforcement of the Tobacco Act 1987.
This Act is a key piece of Victorian legislation that regulates tobacco products and smoking offences, which has undergone a number of changes to provide tougher controls on tobacco display, advertising and sales, as well as the places where smoking can occur.
Smoking is prohibited in all outdoor dining areas and at all outdoor public events.
E-cigarettes and shisha tobacco are now also regulated like other tobacco products.
Tobacco display advertising and sales
Laws on the sale of tobacco products make it illegal for Victorian retailers to display or promote tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, or packaging anywhere on their premises.
The statewide ban on the sale of tobacco products to persons under 18 also extends to vending machines on retail premises.
Smoking bans
Under Victoria’s Tobacco Act 1987 smoking is prohibited in all enclosed workplaces, including restaurants, cafes, licensed premises and shopping centres as well as certain public spaces where members of the public gather and may be exposed to second-hand tobacco smoke.
These can include children’s play areas, government buildings and certain building entrances.
Signs and factsheets
Businesses owners and managers can order signs and factsheets to help educate and inform staff and the community about the bans or contact us.