Creating smoke and vape free spaces at Cockburn Gateway

South Metropolitan Health Service (SMHS) Health Promotion and Cockburn Gateway Shopping City are working together to create a healthier shopping environment.

The Breath of Fresh Air project aims to create smoke and vape free environments at the shopping centre for shoppers, employees, and the wider community.

On behalf of Cockburn Gateway Shopping City, Marketing Manager Julie Elliott said their primary goal is to create an environment where all shoppers and employees feel comfortable and welcomed.

"We are confident the project will enhance the overall experience for everyone who visits or works in the centre," Julie said.

The shopping centre has implemented several changes, including the installation of new smoke and vape free signage, aligning with current Western Australian tobacco legislation prohibiting smoking within five metres of entrances and within 10-metres of playgrounds.

Employees and visitors will also have access to tobacco cessation resources and information to support those trying to quit smoking and vaping. Soul Pattinson Chemist has partnered with the project by providing discounted tobacco cessation products to staff members to access.

Cancer Council WA has also supported the project, providing training to shopping centre staff, raising awareness of the smoke and vape free areas.

SMHS Director of Community Services, Bronwyn Baker, congratulated the shopping centre for the project.

"This initiative not only benefits the immediate community but also highlights how local organisations can support public health," she said.

"Promoting health in public spaces like shopping centres is crucial. Smoke and vape-free areas ensure cleaner air and help de-normalise smoking and vaping, supporting those who have quit smoking to stay on track."

City of Cockburn Mayor Logan Howlett said he is pleased to support the Breath of Fresh Air project.

"We need to protect the community, especially children, from visible smoking and vaping behaviour and the adverse health risks associated with second-hand smoke," Logan said.

"The City works hard to maintain smoke and vape free signage on community facilities. As part of that program, we conduct yearly audits for evidence of smoking behaviour to help keep our community informed and safe. The actions of SMHS and Cockburn Gateways are to be commended."

In the City of Cockburn, nearly 10 per cent of adults smoke. Tobacco smoke is widely recognised as a major contributor to serious chronic diseases including cancer. Additionally, vaping delivers toxic chemicals directly into the lungs, which can lead to serious lung damage.

This smoke and vape-free initiative complements Cancer Council WA’s prevention campaign ‘Make Smoking History.’

For more information and tips on how to quit vaping, visit Clear the Air website (external link).

For advice and support to help quit smoking, visit the Make Smoking History website (external link).

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