SMOKING near playgrounds, sports grounds and school entrances could soon be a thing of the past in Wyndham.
The council has indicated it supports a smoke-free ban in outdoor areas, after moves by Boroondara Council to introduce bans on smoking in some public places.
Under the proposal being considered by Boroondara, smoking would be banned within 10 metres of playgrounds, barbecues, picnic tables and sports fields where activities are taking place.
The ban would also prohibit smoking within five metres of taxi ranks, municipal buildings and public transport stops on council land.
Wyndham supports a Municipal Association of Victoria push for the state government to implement statewide bans on outdoor smoking.
The MAV and councils have recommended that smoking be banned near outdoor climbing areas and within 10 metres of playground equipment.
They also want the government to investigate bans for beaches, sports grounds and outside school entrances.
The recommendations have been backed by Western Metropolitan Greens MP Colleen Hartland.
Victoria is the only state yet to introduce outdoor smoking bans.
Wyndham Council’s acting chief executive Bill Forrest said the council would consider following in Boroondara’s footsteps if statewide laws were approved by the government.
“Smoke-free outdoor areas will be most effective if there are consistent laws and a consistent approach across Victoria.
Wyndham City will consider further action on this issue locally when the state government’s approach is clear.”
