Published on Thursday, 17 November 2022 at 8:50:00 AM
Vincent has delivered its public health target of achieving smoke-free areas in town centres three years ahead of schedule.
One of the targets in Vincent’s Public Health Plan 2020 – 2025 is to achieve smoke-free town centres by 2025 to reduce community exposure to the harmful effects of smoking and create healthier environments for people to enjoy.
Following Council approval in July, parts of North Perth, Mt Hawthorn, Leederville, William Street and Beaufort Street will be smoke-free from 22 November.
The main streets in the boundaries include Angove and Fitzgerald Streets in North Perth, Scarborough Beach Road in Mt Hawthorn, Oxford Street in Leederville and some adjacent laneways.
Mayor Emma Cole said smoke-free town centres had been a central aim of Vincent’s Public Health Plan.
“We have now reached this goal and I am excited to see residents and visitors enjoy fresh air, free from smoking and vaping in our entertainment precincts,” she said.
“Vaping levels across the country are rising, especially among younger people, so the smoke-free areas will include no smoking and no vaping signage.
“We want to encourage people to quit, and young people not to start smoking and vaping. At the same time, it makes for much more inviting town centres, where we enjoy our alfresco dining and outdoor culture.
“In the first six months of the roll-out, we will be focusing on educating our community and raising awareness about our smoke-free areas and the benefits of not having exposure to second-hand smoke.”
After six months, education and awareness will continue to be the primary approach, but officers would be able to make enforcement decisions, subject to some key principles.
Enforcement of the smoke-free areas penalties of $100, and a $200 maximum would not occur until six months after the start of the roll out.
“Cancer Council WA congratulates the City of Vincent for leading the way with its Smoke Free Town Centres initiative,” Cancer Council WA Make Smoking History Program manager Libby Jardine said.
“We hope that other local governments will be inspired to prioritise tobacco control and expand smoke-free public places for the benefit of their communities.”
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