Smoke-free workplaces
Public transport
Reporting an incident
Further information
Smoking in public places and the sale of tobacco is strictly controlled in Victoria.
A number of laws have been passed in recent years to help keep the Victorian community free from tobacco-related illnesses.
All restaurants, cafes, licensed premises and shopping centres are now smoke-free. Cigarette and tobacco advertising are also strictly controlled.
The City of Melbourne is responsible for ensuring all premises within the municipality comply with these laws.
Workplaces
Smoking is prohibited in all enclosed workplaces for all employed and volunteer staff.
An enclosed workplace means an area or room that is substantially enclosed by a roof and walls, regardless of whether they are permanent or temporary, open or closed.
There are exemptions to this law, including vehicles, sole occupancy workplaces and residential premises.
Employers may need to find alternative arrangements for employees who smoke, such as providing a designated outdoor smoking area.
For further information download the following fact sheet:
Smoke-free Workplaces (PDF, 395kb)
Smoke-free Workplaces (Text only, 37kb)
Train stations, tram and bus shelters
Smoking is prohibited in all covered areas of train platforms, tram and bus shelters.
The Victorian Government is working closely with Public Transport Victoria and public transport operators to assist in implementing the law to all commuters and the broader community. Authorised Officers under the Transport Act 1983 are responsible for enforcing the new law.
Reporting an incident
If you encounter anyone smoking in a smoke-free area, inform the manager of the premises or report the incident to the City of Melbourne on (03) 9658 9658.
After receiving a complaint, an Environmental Health Officer will visit the premises to educate the proprietor about his or her obligations under Victorian tobacco laws. Further complaints could result in fines or prosecution.
Find more information at: