Australian Capital Territory (ACT) smoking in cars when kids are present..

February 8, 2009 - Smoking in cars when children are present was not included in the The Tobacco Amendment Bill 2008 so Katy Gallagher, Minister of Health released a consultation paper (January 2, 2009) on the subject looking for feedback on the subject by February 27, 2009. The paper involves protecting children in cars from passive smoking (environmental tobacco smoke, ETS, secondhand, involuntary). Topics to consider: Ban smoking in a motor vehicle when a child under the age of 16 years is present, Ban smoking in a motor vehicle when any passengers are present or Total ban on smoking while driving.

If you want to have your say on this discussion paper then you’ve got until 27 February to comment: Mail: Smoking in cars, Health Protection Service, Locked Bag 5,
Weston Creek ACT 2611, Email: hps@act.gov.au, Fax: (02) 6205 1705.

Tobacco retail display ban was proposed for Canberra - The Australian Capital Territory (ACT)in March 2008..

On August 27, 2008 Tobacco Amendment Bill 2008 passed the Legislative Assembly. The Tobacco Amendment Bill 2008 continues to implement tighter laws around tobacco and tobacco sales: prohibit point of sale displays; remove the ministerial exemption for tobacco advertising and sponsorship; amend the definition of vending machine; ban rewards for smoking product purchases and ban flavored cigarettes and split packets.

For most tobacco licensees tobacco displays will be removed by 31 Dec 2009 and for retailers whose primary business is tobacco sales the displays would be removed by 31 Dec 2010. When will the other changes be implemented??

Steps involved in getting the ban on smoking in cars passed. The consultation phase ends shortly I believe. The Department will then be required to compile a report reflecting the views from this consultation and making recommendations for a way forward. The Health Minister will then need to take the options to Cabinet for a decision on any proposed changes. I wouldn't think there would be anything occurring until at least mid- year. (communication with Angie Drake, Media Contact, Govt of the Australian Capital Territory)

Consultation Paper..

Reference: Smoking in cars when children are presentACT Government Health Information, 1/2009.