WOMADELAIDE

The Hon. SANDRA KANCK (14:32): I have a supplementary question: does the government support the 'We're smoke-free' initiative under which WOMAD is badging itself? If so, does the state government provide any money for the 'We're smoke-free' initiative?

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for Environment and Conservation, Minister for Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health) (14:32): The state government supports, in principle, all initiatives that promote anti-smoking and smoke-free venues. We support that in principle. However, clearly I have gone on record to say that, in terms of government policy, we need to ensure that we move forward in developing regulations and legislation and that it is not simply a knee-jerk reaction to popular public opinion but based on clear science.

The science around the impact of outdoor smoking, in terms of passive health effects, is difficult to interpret and unclear. Therefore, the government is proceeding very cautiously and very thoroughly in terms of development of its own policy. In terms of other organisations, if their assessment is that there is strong support for smoke-free environments near their establishments, buildings, areas or events, it is certainly to be encouraged.