The state government is pushing for stronger smoking laws to help minimise Queensland’s leading cause of disease and death. 

Health Minister Yvette D’Ath has called for public feedback on a raft of legal changes aimed at preventing young adults from taking up smoking or vaping.

Under the changes, pubs and clubs would face a shake-up with drinking banned in designated outdoor smoking areas (DOSAs).

DOSAs could also be moved further from other patrons in an effort to reduce secondhand smoke exposure.

Cancer Council General Manager James Farrell told Rob McKnight smoking puts an enormous strain on the public health system.

“The cost to the Queensland economy from smoking is estimated to be over $27 billion,” he said.

“The excise collected by the federal government goes nowhere near addressing that cost.”

Press PLAY below to hear more of the proposed changes 

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