PCC smoking bans: Time for WA Government to act

August 6, 2008

The AMA (WA) has praised Perth City Council's decision to ban smoking in outdoor restaurants - and says the State Government should step in to outlaw smoking in all alfresco cafes and beer gardens.

"Perth City Council has done the right thing by deciding to make the health and well being of West Australians a priority when they visit restaurants and cafes," said association President Prof Geoff Dobb.

"This means that smoking will eventually be banned in two of the State's most popular alfresco dining areas, Northbridge and Fremantle's cappuccino strip.

"The Government should now pick up the baton and make smoking illegal in all outdoor restaurants throughout WA – and ban smoking in beer gardens, other public places and in cars carrying children while they're at it."

Prof Dodd said that since smoking had been banned in pubs and clubs two years ago, outdoor dining areas had been become a refuges for smokers, making alfresco eating a health risk and an unpleasant experience.

"The vast majority of Australians – more than 85 per cent – are non-smokers and are entitled to eat in healthy smoke-free environments," he said.

"There is scientific proof that second hand smoke is a risk to non-smokers and we urge the Government to show the rest of Australia that smoking is history in WA.

"The community is ready for it - and wants it."

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