In-line with the new Local Law, Council has prescribed smoke-free zones in the following Activity Centres: Alma Village; Caulfield Park; Caulfield Station Precinct; Carnegie; Murrumbeena; Hughesdale; Elsternwick; Caulfield South; Glen Huntly; Ormond; McKinnon; Bentleigh; Bentleigh East; and Patterson.

This means that smoking is prohibited in the smoke-free zones in these Activity Centres.

Smoke-free zones aim to protect the community from the known health impacts of second-hand smoke; raise community awareness of the health benefits of being smoke-free; improve public amenity; encourage a reduction in smoking; and reduce tobacco-related litter.

Glen Eira Mayor Cr Jim Magee said people should be able to shop, walk, browse and socialise in our Activity Centres free from second-hand smoke.

"While train stations, bus stops and outdoor dining areas where food is served are already smoke-free under Victorian legislation, our smoke-free zones will extend non-smoking requirements to public open spaces, such as footpaths and plazas,” he said.

"The smoke-free zones won't include private homes or other areas where smoking is permitted by State Government legislation.

"We will also be installing signage in smoke-free zones in and around the main street of our Activity Centres."

Cr Magee said Council has always wanted to ensure that its busy Activity Centres provide an environment that is family-friendly and attractive to a broad cross-section of the community.

“In the wake of COVID, ensuring our Activity Centres are vibrant and a destination for a great shopping experience has never been more important for our traders and our community,” he said.