PROPOSED changes to Victoria’s tobacco laws will mean e-cigarettes and regular cigarettes will be regulated in the same way.
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The state government is reviewing the Tobacco Act 1987, and is debating the Tobacco Amendment Bill 2016 introduced into parliament in May.
The government has consulted the Municipal Association of Victoria and councils about proposed changes.
Among these are extending smoking bans to all outdoor dining areas including beer gardens, plus dining areas at restaurants, take-away shops and on footpaths.
Smoking would also be banned at food fairs and organised outdoor events such as community festivals, school fetes and sporting events.
The proposed legislation does not include outdoor drinking areas where alcohol consumption is the only activity taking place.
If the bill passes, electronic cigarettes – including ones with and without nicotine – would not be allowed in any areas where tobacco is banned.
The proposed changes would also mean e-cigarettes could not be displayed at retail outlets, or sold to people under 18.
New legislation would take effect in August next year if the bill passes.
