Smoke-free zones aim to protect the community from the known health impacts of second-hand smoke; raise community awareness of the health benefits of being smoke-free; improve public amenity; encourage a reduction in smoking; and reduce tobacco-related litter.

Glen Eira Mayor Cr Margaret Esakoff said people should be able to shop, walk, browse and socialise in smoke-free public areas.

“While train stations, bus stops and outdoor dining areas where food is served are already smoke-free under Victorian legislation, our smoke-free zones will extend non-smoking requirements to public open spaces, such as footpaths, plazas and public car parks,” she said.

“The smoke-free zones won’t include private homes or other areas in buildings allowed by State Government legislation.”

Cr Esakoff said the first activity centres to have smoke-free areas implemented will be Bentleigh, Carnegie and Elsternwick.

“To assist in the implementation of smoke-free zones, Council is looking to develop a Local Law,” she said.

“We will also be installing signage in smoke-free areas in and around the main street of our activity centres.”