Australia has long been at the forefront of tobacco control, introducing progressive legislation over several decades to reduce smoking rates and protect public health. From a time when smoking indoors was common, even in hospitals and airplanes, to today’s strict public smoking bans, Australia’s smoking laws have undergone significant transformation. Here is a timeline highlighting key changes, especially regarding indoor smoking and proximity to building entrances.

Pre-1980s: Smoking Everywhere

In the mid-20th century, smoking was a widely accepted social norm in Australia. People smoked in offices, restaurants, cinemas, hospitals, buses, and even airplanes. There were no laws prohibiting smoking indoors, and tobacco advertising was prevalent across all media.

1980s: Growing Awareness, First Restrictions

1986

The tide began to shift with the first public bans on smoking in planes, introduced by domestic airlines like Qantas and Ansett. Around the same time, smoking was banned in buses and trains in most states.

1980

Some state governments and local councils began to restrict smoking in public buildings, including hospitals, government offices, and schools. However, these were sporadic and not nationwide.

1990s: Smoking Sections and Designated Areas

Early to Mid-1990s

Many restaurants and cafés began introducing smoking and non-smoking sections in response to public demand and health advocacy.

1994–1995

Various state governments, including New South Wales and Victoria, implemented laws requiring smoke-free zones in restaurants, often mandating a percentage of seating to be non-smoking.

1997–1999

Restrictions expanded to include shopping centres, cinemas, and workplaces, though enforcement and definitions varied between states.

2000s: Bans Expand to Bars, Nightclubs, and Casinos

2000

The state of South Australia became the first to ban smoking in enclosed workplaces, including hospitality venues, but with exceptions for designated areas.

2004

Tasmania led the way by banning smoking in all indoor public spaces, including bars, clubs, and gaming venues.

2006–2007: Other states followed:

New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and Western Australia introduced complete indoor smoking bans, covering restaurants, pubs, nightclubs, and casinos.

By mid-2007, all Australian states and territories had banned smoking in enclosed public spaces, effectively ending indoor smoking in hospitality venues nationwide.o control.