Smoke Free Survey

Project update

On Monday 8 July 2024 Council adopted the following recommendations:

(a) That Council approves the introduction of signage to be installed in Parramatta Square under the provisions of the Smoke-Free Environment Act 2000 (the Act).
(b) That Council, for consistency, approves the introduction of signage to be installed in the adjoining area of ‘Centenary Square’ under the Act.
(c) That Council notes that a specific No Smoking Policy is not necessary or required as the Act and its Regulations are specific and prescriptive to manage smoking in public spaces whether signposted or not.

Background

In mid-2024, Council conducted a survey on whether Centenary Square and Parramatta Square should be made smoking-and-vaping-free zones.

These two public spaces host growing numbers of commuters, workers and visitors, as people navigate the CBD and stop to enjoy the sunshine, cafes, markets and other activities.

Council staff have observed an increase in litter from smoking and received complaints from the public about exposure to smoke and vapor.

Community engagement

Over 3000 people visited the survey landing page during the engagement and 594 responses were submitted – 119 from an in-person survey and 475 from the online survey.

• Eight in ten people support a smoking and vaping ban and/or a trial.
• There is strong opposition to smoking in high-traffic areas and gathering places and respondents took the opportunity to express negative sentiment about their experience of smoke in Parramatta Square in particular.

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