Cancer Council has applauded the Palaszczuk Government for providing local governments with extra funding to prepare for new smoking laws, set to take effect statewide in September.
On September 1, new laws will ban smoking at public transport waiting points, pedestrian malls, aged care facilities, specified national parks and at or near children’s organised sporting events and skate parks in Queensland.
The Palaszczuk Government will provide $1 million to 14 metro and regional councils to make practical changes to prepare their communities for the new laws.
Cancer Council Queensland CEO Professor Jeff Dunn AO thanked the State Government for assisting local councils, helping the community comply with the new laws.
“The new smoking bans will safeguard Queenslanders from second-hand smoke, encourage more smokers to quit and prevent more young people from taking up this lethal habit,” Prof Dunn said.
“Local councils need assistance to educate the community about the bans, and to ensure practical steps are taken to help all community members comply.
“The one-off grants will assist local councils with practical measures like relocating or modifying butt bins and rubbish bins near public transport waiting points.
“Practical changes like this will help our community transition to the new legislation, and assist in helping existing smokers to quit.”
Around 12 per cent of Queensland adults smoke daily – 50,000 fewer people than in 2014. Research shows the majority of smokers want to quit.
“Support for smoke free spaces is higher than ever – communities across the state are in favour of these laws, that safeguards against the very real dangers of passive smoking,” Prof Dunn said.
“Around one Queenslander a day tragically dies from second-hand smoke exposure – having never smoked a cigarette in their life.
“These laws are a historic move for Queensland and for public health globally, and we are pleased to see the Government providing financial assistance to ensure their success.”
Around 3700 Queenslanders die from a tobacco-related disease each year. About 370 of these deaths are caused by second-hand smoke exposure.
Smokers can obtain free information, practical assistance and support from Quitline, 13 QUIT (13 7848).
More information about Cancer Council Queensland is available at cancerqld.org.au or Cancer Council’s 13 11 20.
ENDS
For more information or interviews, please contact:
Executive Manager,
Media and Spokesperson,
Cancer Council Queensland
Phone: (07) 3634 5372
Mobile: 0409 001 171