Health News
Australia tightens the screw on smokers
Feb 22, 2012, 6:02 GMT
Sydney - Parks, bus stops, taxi ranks and outdoor dining areas will be no-go areas for smokers under legislation flagged Tuesday in Australia's biggest state.
The draft laws in New South Wales also signal an end to groups of smokers congregating at the entrance of smoke-free public buildings.
Lobby group Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) welcomed the measures that take effect in 2015.
'There's strong public support for making these workplaces smoke-free to protect the health of employees and diners - including children,' ASH chief Anne Jones said.
Australia passed its first anti-smoking law a century ago and is one of the toughest jurisdictions for smokers.
All forms of tobacco advertising are banned. In some states it is illegal to smoke on the beach, in open-air cafes and in private cars if there are children on board.
Soon, plain packaging will be introduced - if tobacco companies fail in their legal challenge to a measure they say is an attack on brand value and intellectual property.
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