From 9 December 2010, all outdoor eating and drinking places at restaurants, cafes, pubs, bars and clubs can be enjoyed without exposure to tobacco smoke.  This is seen as an important step in improving the health of the A.C.T. community

Some pubs, bars and licensed clubs will still be able to provide desiganted outdoor smoking areas that are separate to other outdoor areas, where there is no food or drink service but patrons may smoke and drink.

A.C.T. Health is continuing to work towards reducing the community's exposure to the harmful effects of tobacco smoke.

Smoke-free environments can encourage people to quit smoking and reduce the likelihood of young people taking up the habit.

The implementation of these smoke-free requirements is another vital step towards achieving the goal of improved public health.  Achieving this goal is expected to deliver benfits for businesses and the community through the creation of healthier social environments.