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Australia: Victoria bans smoking in cars carrying children

Smoking will be banned in cars carrying children in Victoria under new anti-smoking measures.

From early next year, it will be illegal for Victorians to smoke in cars carrying children under 16.

Offenders will face fines of up to $200 if they are caught.

The Brumby Government's crackdown is the key component of its soon-to-be released Tobacco Control Strategy.

Under the policy, there will be restrictions on the display of cigarettes in shops and packets will not be sold at outdoor events.

It is hoped the strategy will cut the state's smoking rates by 20 per cent.

Indoor smoking bans are not expected to be extended to outdoor alfresco dining areas and beer gardens.

The Government's war on tobacco has won strong support from health groups.

Health Minister Daniel Andrews last night confirmed the new tobacco policy would push for as many restrictions as possible to curb the adverse affects of smoking.

"Banning smoking in cars when children are present will be one significant package of the reforms put forward in our discussion paper," Mr Andrews said.

"The Government is committed to reducing smoking rates to bring down the incidence of cancer, heart disease and other preventable diseases."

Quit Victoria executive director Fiona Sharkie hailed the bans as a major victory in Victorian health reform.

Ms Sharkie said one in four Australian smokers lit up while driving with other people in the car and bans were in the interest of public safety.

"This will make a difference, particularly in the health of children and babies," she said.

"The dangers of secondhand smoke are well known, but we've done nothing before to protect the kids from it, so this is a good move forward."

Victoria will become the fourth state - after Queensland, SA and Tasmania - to ban smoking in cars.

The Government has also allowed local councils to ban smoking at beaches and parks.

Source: The Herald Sun, 27th July 2008
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