Call for Western Australian government to introduce tough legislation to discourage smoking

The Western Australian government should follow the lead of South Australia and introduce tough legislation to discourage smoking, the AMA (WA) said today.

The South Australian government is introducing legislation to make it illegal to smoke in enclosed workplaces and public areas including shops while bans on licensed venues such as pubs and clubs will be phased in.

The bill will also dramatically increase restrictions on tobacco sales by making it illegal to have cigarettes in view on shelves as well as banning advertising displays.

"The South Australian government is demonstrating it is serious about reducing cigarette smoking and the effects of passive smoking," AMA (WA) President Dr Brent Donovan said.

"There is no reason the WA government cannot introduce legislation into this session of Parliament banning smoking in enclosed public places."

"Recent tests by the AMA demonstrate the urgency of banning smoking in bars to protect patrons and employees," Dr Donovan said.

"The Government should also seriously consider the plans to restrict tobacco sales by making it illegal to have cigarettes in view on shelves as well as banning advertising displays."

"If the State acts now it will gain the praise of the community and the health profession," Dr Donovan said.