Stricter smoking and vaping laws announced for 2024 in South Australia
South Australia will clamp down on smoking and vaping under stricter nationwide new laws to be introduced next year.
From March 1, on-the-spot fines of $105 and prosecution penalties of up to $750 will be issued to people caught vaping or smoking in a range of prohibited public settings.
Outdoor areas where smoking and vaping will be banned include, shopping centre entrances, schools, beaches and outdoor public swimming pools.
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South Australia will clamp down on smoking and vaping under stricter new laws to be introduced next year. Nine
The move is in line with the federal government's vaping reforms, which will ban the importation of disposable vapes from January 1.
Health Minister Chris Picton said there's never been a better time to make a New Year's resolution to quit the deadly habit, than this week.
"Smoking is our biggest preventable killer and cause of disease and we need to do more to stop its devastating effects," he said.
"We make no apologies for seeking to introduce tougher bans and penalties particularly where children are impacted.
"Smoking has a tragic cost on human lives and is also a burden on our health system in delivering care for those affected."
To educate the community about the new bans, an advertising campaign will launch at the end of January, with ads running on social media, radio, billboards, buses and shopping centres.
Health Minister Chris Picton said there's never been a better time to make a New Year's resolution to quit the deadly habit, than this week. 9News
Chief Public Health Officer Professor Nicola Spurrier said the changes brought the state one step closer to a smoke-free generation.
"The feedback from our consultation reflects the growing concern in the community about the health impacts of both smoking and passive smoking," she said.
"These new measures support a smoke-free South Australia and role model best behaviour for the next generation."
The tough new laws are being introduced under the South Australian Tobacco and E-Cigarette Products Act 1997 following extensive consultation with the community.
The government has also proposed a maximum court fine for selling tobacco products to a minor increase from $1,200 to $2,400.
The penalty for a business selling to a minor will jump from $20,000 to $40,000.
Tobacco vending machines will be banned under the proposed changes.
Licensed premises are currently only allowed to have one cigarette vending machine on site.
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