QUEENSLANDERS EMBRACE NEW SMOKING BANS

A statewide inspection blitz over two weeks has found Queenslanders are abiding by the Beattie Government’s new smoking bans in pubs and clubs, Health Minister Stephen Robertson said today.

Mr Robertson said since the three-month ‘grace period’ ended on September 30, Queensland Health carried out more than 3,500 inspections on liquor licensed premises and outdoor eating and drinking venues.

Only two $150 on-the-spot fines were issued.

“Queensland Health environmental health officers inspected pubs and clubs from the Gold Coast to far north Queensland and found a very high level of compliance,” Mr Robertson said.

“Only one fine each was issued to a person smoking in an enclosed place in a licensed premises and a person smoking in an outdoor eating or drinking venue.

“Two fines from 3,543 inspections says to me that Queenslanders are not only aware of the new laws but are embracing them.

“I congratulate Queenslanders and pubs and clubs for their widespread co-operation.

“This is the final phase of the toughest anti-smoking regime in the country and it is building a healthier Queensland.”

Mr Robertson said people caught smoking inside Queensland pubs and clubs could now be issued a $150 on-the-spot fine.

“The laws took effect on 1 July this year but we allowed a grace period from prosecution to give Queenslanders and licensees time to get used to the new bans,” he said.

“For two weeks Queensland Health has begun a targeted enforcement of the laws.

“Smoking is still permitted in ‘designated outdoor smoking areas’ at pubs and clubs.

“However, anyone found smoking in the no-smoking areas will be issued with a $150 on-the-spot fine and businesses breaking the law will be prosecuted.

“Queensland is the only state in Australia to have such comprehensive smoking bans in public places.

“Major sports venues, patrolled beaches, public building entrance areas and children’s playgrounds are all smoke-free and tough new tobacco retailing laws are also in place.

“To date, the response from the public and industry about the smoking bans has been extremely positive and we look forward to continued support from all Queenslanders to creating smoke-free environments.”

Mr Robertson said Queensland Health officers have inspected more than 115,000 sites since 1 January 2005 when the Beattie Government’s tough anti-smoking and tobacco retailing laws first came into force.

“To date, 1,019 on-the-spot fines have been issued throughout Queensland for breaches,” he said.

Queenslanders are encouraged to report possible breaches of the new laws to the Tobacco Hotline 1800 005 998 or via the Queensland Health website – www.health.qld.gov.au.

15 October,  2006

MEDIA:    Joshua Cooney 3234 1185 or 0409 069 056