Smoke Free University FAQs

We have a legal responsibility to provide a safe workplace and to protect staff, students and visitors from the serious health risks associated with exposure to second hand smoke (passive).

The University also encourages healthier lifestyle choices for staff, students and the wider community who share and visit our campuses.

A smoke-Free University was introduced after feedback was received from members of the University community and consultation with a range of key stakeholders.

The University has been smoke-free at North Terrace campus since 1 July 2010 with progressive implementation across all campuses by 1 July 2011.

The smoke-free initiative applies to:

• all campuses, properties, buildings, vehicles or other areas owned, controlled or leased by the University; except where a specific exemption has been granted;
• all retail vendors operating on University owned, controlled or leased premises.

Exemptions must be authorised by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic).  Where approved, this information will be displayed on the HSW website.

Anyone who studies, works or visits University of Adelaide campuses including general public. i.e. all persons outlined in the scope of the University’s HSW Policy Statement and all persons on University premises or grounds.

The residential facilities where exemptions have been approved are displayed on the HSW website under the smoke-free chapter of the HSW Handbook.  [Note – All exemptions have been authorised by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)].

A report can be lodged with Service Delivery on 8313 4008 who will investigate and co-ordinate appropriate signage and/or waste disposal units where appropriate.

Yes. The Cancer Council of Australia have issued a position statement on the health risks of passive smoking.

Even small amounts of exposure to tobacco smoke can be harmful to people’s health. A smoke-free environment is the only way to fully protect non-smokers from the dangers of second-hand smokeTo review the position statement, refer to Cancer Council of Australia website.

Yes.  In accordance with the Tobacco and E-Cigarette Products Act (1997) and Regulations (2019) any device that is designed to generate or release an aerosol or vapour for inhalation in a manner similar to the inhalation of smoke from an ignited tobacco product is included.

For further information on e-cigarettes please refer to the Cancer Council of Australia website.

You will be in contravention of University Policy.

The consequences of non-compliance with the HSW Handbook Chapter “Smoke-free University” may be addressed through the University’s disciplinary procedures.

The University’s objective is to provide a “Smoke free” workplace and a safe environment for our staff and students.
Whilst on University of Adelaide organised field trips or undergraduate teaching activities off campus, you should be
mindful of your surroundings and the impact to the health of others. Smoking is not permitted in any area (including any
area outdoors) where other students or staff may be subjected to your second hand smoke or vapour. You are also
required to observe the requirements and restrictions imposed under the Tobacco and E-Cigarette Products legislation
(including the specific restrictions on smoking in some defined public areas) and also follow any signage displaying
restrictions on other external premises.

• Staff breaches of this process will be addressed as misconduct.
• Student breaches will be directed to the Student Services office for actioning in accordance with the University Statute “Conduct of Students in the University”.
• Contractors in breach will be reported to the relevant University representative (e.g. University project manager, Service Provider or School/Branch representative)
• Visitor breaches will be referred to the Security Office:
  • North Tce (831) 35990
  • Waite campus (831) 37200
  • Roseworthy (831) 37999

Tobacco products are not sold on University campuses or facilities.

The University actively supports staff and students who want to stop smoking.

Please visit the University’s Healthy University Wellbeing Program or visit Quitline – Cancer Council SA.

If you would like more information about Smoke-Free University Chapter of the HSW Handbook please visit the HSW homepage or contact the local HSW contact.