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Victoria to ban smoking where children gather

AAP
AAP
February 07, 201312:06PM

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The Victorian Government will ban smoking at all children's playgrounds and sporting facilities but the Cancer Council says the state still isn't in line with the rest of the nation.

Health Minister David Davis today announced plans to ban smoking at all public playgrounds, swimming pools and children's sporting facilities.

But the laws, which are due to come before parliament this year, do not include a ban on smoking in outdoor dining areas.

Cancer Council Victoria chief executive Todd Harper said such a ban would have a dramatic effect on smoking rates.

"Victoria is still the only state in Australia that has not already introduced or announced an intention to introduce smoke-free outdoor dining and drinking areas," he said.

Mr Davis said the Government plans more action to tackle smoking.

"This is a further, sensible step in a long line of tobacco initiatives," he said.




"These measures are targeted to protect families and protect children.

"We will make further announcements on that in coming months."

Premier Ted Baillieu said it was important to first protect children from the dangers of smoking.

"I think smoking around children is a no-no, and I'm sure Victorians don't support anybody smoking around children," he said.

Opposition leader Daniel Andrews said he was waiting for details of the changes.

"There's always a next step and obviously I'd encourage the Government to continue the reforms that we put in place," he said.