Expanding smoke and vape-free zones in regional Victoria, Australia

Abstract Background Smoking and vaping are major contributors to chronic disease in Australia. While national regulation has reduced smoking rates, vaping has increased, particularly among youth. Gippsland experiences persistently high smoking rates, requiring place-based action to improve health outcomes. The Gippsland Region Public Health Unit (GRPHU) explored local community attitudes toward expanding smoke and vape-free zones through Breathe Easy Gippsland. Methods A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with Gippsland residents aged 12 and older (n = 662) between July and November 2023. Descriptive statistics assessed demographic characteristics and survey items. Logistic regression examined associations between support for interventions and relevant covariates. Open-ended responses were analysed using thematic content analysis. Results Most respondents (91%) supported local action to reduce smoking and vaping harm, including expanding smoke and vape-free zones. Occasional users (OR 4.75, 95% CI 1.45-18.93) and non-users (OR 22.45, 95% CI 10.22-50.26) were more likely to support expansion than regular smokers or vapers. Youth aged 16-18 were less likely to support expansion than those aged 60 and over (OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.11-0.92). Among business owners and managers, 48% anticipated no negative impact and 29% expected positive effects. Thematic analysis revealed strong support for protecting at-risk groups, reducing exposure to secondhand smoke and aerosols, and de-normalising smoking and vaping. Conclusions There is strong public support in Gippsland for expanding smoke and vape-free zones. These findings offer valuable insights into rural and regional attitudes and demonstrate the potential for community-driven action to shape local tobacco and vaping control policies. Key messages • Gippslanders support the expansion of smoke and vape-free zones. • Community-informed policies can shift social norms and reduce exposure to smoking and vaping harms.