Manningham City Council is helping food and hospitality businesses make sense of the latest State Government tobacco reforms by holding two information sessions on Monday 24 July.
The sessions to be held at Manningham Civic Centre are designed to inform and support hospitality businesses in adopting the latest changes to the Tobacco Act 1987, banning smoking in outdoor dining areas from 1 August 2017.
Manningham City Council Mayor Cr Michelle Kleinert said the Andrews Government’s ban on smoking in outdoor dining areas would allow Victorians to enjoy a meal outside without being subjected to second-hand smoke.
“This ban will cover all outdoor dining areas at restaurants, cafes, take away shops and licenced premises,” she said.
“It also covers food fairs and within 10 metres of food stalls and vendors at organised community events.”
The Andrews Government has undertaken extensive consultation with health experts, businesses and the hospitality industry, local government and the community to inform legislation introduced into the Parliament in 2016.
Cr Kleinert said two information sessions would be held to provide information and resources to assist local businesses with the transition.
“It’s important businesses are well informed and sufficiently prepared for these changes,” she said. “Council is actively working with businesses to help them understand their obligations under the new laws.”
According to research from Cancer Council Victoria, 73 per cent of Victorians support the ban. The new ban aims to protect the community from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke, reduce the visibility of smokers and support smokers to quit for good.
The bans are enforced by all local governments, and individuals and businesses can face on-the-spot fines up to $793 for non-compliance.
Event details – Tobacco reform information sessions for businesses
Date: Monday, 24 July
Time: Breakfast 7.00 am – 9.00 am, Morning Tea 10.00 am – 11.00 am
Location: Function Room 3, Manningham Civic Centre, 699 Doncaster Road Doncaster.
Register: visit www.manninghambusiness.com.au/events/tobacco-reform-sessions/
