In 2000, with public approval the Victorian Government passed a number of tobacco reforms.
- From 1 July 2001, smoking was banned in enclosed restaurants and cafes, and in dining areas in premises with a general or club licence.
Additional smokefree policies in hospitality venues were introduced under the Tobacco (Miscellaneous Amendments) Act 2002.
From 1 September 2002, smoking was :
- Restricted in licensed venues such as hotels and clubs
- Banned in the gaming machine areas of gaming venues, exemptions were granted at the Crown Casino; and
- Banned in bingo centres;
On October 12, 2004, the Victorian Government announced further plans to introduce total smoking bans in all enclosed areas of licensed hotels, bars and nightclubs by July 1 2007.
Smoking is now banned in an outdoor dining or drinking area (e.g. a balcony or courtyard) if the area has a roof in place and the total actual area of the wall surfaces exceeds 75% of the total notional wall area.
For details about the Victoria's smokefree legislation visit the tobacco reforms website.