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Studies show that children overestimate the prevalence of smoking in the community. In part, they overestimate the level of smoking because they are exposed to tobacco product displays at virtually every retail outlet they enter. This reinforces the idea to young people that smoking is common and socially acceptable, and increases the risk of them taking up the habit.
It is also widely recognised that tobacco advertising has a significant influence on the uptake of smoking by young people. More than 80% of smokers take up the habit before the age of 18, then go on to regret it.
In 2002, the Queensland Government introduced restrictions on the advertising, display and promotion of tobacco products at retail outlets. These restrictions have since been strengthened.
NEW!
In April 2010, in response to the Queensland Parliament's Social Development Committee's Report on Chronic Disease, the Government announced that retail displays of smoking and related products at retailers throughout Queensland will be banned in 2011.
From 18 November 2011, all Queensland retailers who sell smoking products must ensure that all smoking product displays are covered in accordance with the new laws, and existing mandatory signage is removed and the new A4 mandatory sign is displayed at the relevant point of sale.
If you are a tobacco retailer or liquor licensee, you must ensure you are aware of all the requirements under the tobacco legislation. An Information Guide about the new laws for retailing is available here.
You can access copies of Queensland's Tobacco and Other Smoking Products Act 1998 and Tobacco and Other Smoking Products Regulation 2010 online.
More information and free copies of the mandatory sign can be obtained by calling the Government call centre on 13 QGOV - 13 7468.
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