Families visiting playgrounds across the Mornington Peninsula will soon start seeing new smoke and vape free signage, helping create healthier places for children to play.
"Playgrounds are places where children should feel safe and free to play, and where families can enjoy time together," said Acting Mayor Paul Pingiaro.
"Installing smoke-free signage is a practical action under our Health and Wellbeing Plan, helping protect children's health and supporting cleaner, more welcoming spaces for our community."
Signs are being installed at around 134 playgrounds to remind visitors that smoking and vaping are not permitted within 10 metres of outdoor children's playground equipment in line with Victoria's Tobacco Act 1987.
Playgrounds are designed for children - for climbing, running, laughing and exploring. Clear signage helps protect young lungs from second-hand smoke and supports cleaner, more comfortable spaces for families spending time outdoors.
"We are proud to partner with Mornington Peninsula Shire in supporting this initiative and fostering a healthier community, free from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke," said Iain Edwards, Bayside Health Peninsula Care Group's Operations Director of Community Health and Ambulatory Services.
Many people already choose not to smoke or vape around children. The new signage reinforces that community norm and helps make playgrounds places where parents and carers can relax, knowing their kids are playing in a healthier environment.
"All Bayside Health Peninsula Care Group hospitals and healthcare sites are smoke-free, as part of our commitment to providing a smoke free environment to all staff, volunteers, patients, clients and visitors," Edwards added.
This work builds on existing smoke-free areas at local beaches and sporting reserves, supporting the community's strong focus on wellbeing and family-friendly public spaces.
Want to learn more? Visit mornpen.vic.gov.au/smokefree
Together, let's make our community healthier and happier.
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