Western Australian health experts are urging the State Government to close a longstanding loophole that permits smoking in outdoor areas of licensed venues, following new data indicating a significant shift in public sentiment against secondhand smoke.
Survey Reveals Strong Support for Smoke-Free Venues
A Cancer Council survey has uncovered a groundswell of support for making WA pubs, clubs, and bars completely smoke-free. An overwhelming 75 per cent of adults believe these venues should be entirely free of both tobacco smoke and e-cigarette vapour.
Cancer Council WA Make Smoking History manager Libby Jardine said the findings send a clear message that West Aussies want stronger protection from secondhand smoke.
Current Legislation and Its Gaps
Under current laws, licensed venues can permit smoking in up to 50 per cent of their outdoor eating and drinking areas, while restaurants remain strictly smoke-free. This disparity has long been a concern for health advocates.
Ms Jardine highlighted that businesses could benefit from going smoke-free. “More than half of West Australians told us making venues completely smoke-free would make no difference to how often they visit, while a third said they would visit smoke-free venues more often,” she explained.
Dismantling Industry Concerns
The survey results challenge traditional industry fears about potential loss of patronage. Only nine per cent of respondents indicated they would visit venues less often if smoking were banned entirely. In fact, 91 per cent of WA adults reported they would either visit more often or not change their habits.
“In addition, three in four West Australians think that all pubs, clubs and bars should be completely smoke-free and vape-free,” Ms Jardine said. “These results send a strong message that West Aussies want to enjoy a night out without being surrounded by smoke.”
Health Implications for Workers
Beyond patron comfort, the Cancer Council is emphasising the critical health risks for hospitality workers, who are frequently exposed to harmful secondhand smoke as part of their job. “Smoke-free environments protect the health of patrons and staff, support people who want to quit, and make venues more welcoming for everyone,” Ms Jardine said.
The push comes as smoking rates remain at 12.5 per cent. Advocates argue that maintaining smoking zones in social hubs makes quitting significantly more difficult for those trying to give up the habit.
