Tobacco

Environmental Tobacco Smoke

The page contains information on passive smoking

The issue of smoking in public places is one that, generally, comes within the jurisdiction of the 'States and Territories' power. However, the Commonwealth has acted where it has had the power to do so. For example, Commonwealth bans have been introduced in:

• all Commonwealth government buildings;
• aircraft, buses and coaches registered under the Federal Interstate Registration scheme; and
• all airport buildings operated by the Federal Airports Corporation and on all domestic flights and international flights operating in domestic airspace.

In developing its policy on smoking in public places, the Commonwealth has been concerned to ensure that bans are consistent with prevailing community attitudes.

States and Territories are actively pursuing bans on smoking in enclosed public places. There are also regulated restrictions on smoking in hotels, clubs and casinos.

The latest jurisdiction to put comprehensive bans and restrictions into place is the Northern Territory which enacted new legislation on 31 May 2003.

Each State and Territory also has occupational health and safety legislation, which imposes a duty on all employers to provide, within reason, a workplace that is free of hazards to health for employees and those entering the premises. This includes smoke free work environments.