FAQs

When did the new policy start?
The new policy came into effect on 1 January 2013.

Where can I smoke?
Smoking is now prohibited on all UWS campuses, with the exception of a number of clearly marked designated smoking areas. Locations have been selected to be as convenient as possible for smokers while being away from main thoroughfares and eating areas to minimise staff, student and visitor exposure to environmental tobacco smoke.

How was this decision made?
This decision was made following consultation with staff and students and a review of other Australian universities’ smoking policies. It is consistent with Australian and NSW Government policy on smoking in educational facilities, and is supported by Population Health, Nepean Blue Mountains and Western Sydney Local Health Districts.

Why the change?
The Towards Smoke-Free Campuses initiative aims to provide a healthier, clean air environment for staff, students and visitors to the University, as well as reduce the environmental impact of smoking litter.

Does this policy apply to cigars and water pipe tobacco smoking?
Yes, the policy applies to all forms of tobacco smoking including cigarettes, cigars and water pipe tobacco smoking.

What are the consequences of smoking outside designated smoking areas?
For staff, compliance with the policy is a condition of employment, and for students, compliance with the policy is a condition of enrolment. Breaches of the policy will be referred to the staff member’s supervisor or the student’s Dean of the School. Several breaches may result in unsatisfactory conduct proceedings for staff or non-academic misconduct proceedings for students.

What should I do if I see someone smoking outside a designated smoking area?
It is everyone's right and responsibility to maintain a healthy working and learning environment. If you see someone smoking outside a designated smoking area, you may remind them of the policy and politely ask them to move to a designated smoking area, if you feel comfortable doing so. Alternatively, you can contact a staff member from Campus Safety and Security (opens in a new window).

Will the new policy be reviewed?
Yes, the UWS Tobacco Working Group will review the UWS Environmental Tobacco Smoke policy annually.

Where will the designated smoking areas be located?
The designated smoking areas are located away from main thoroughfares and eating areas to minimise staff, student and visitor exposure to environmental tobacco smoke. The locations are also designed to be as convenient as possible for smokers, including residents of UWS College, and those who use the uwsconnect sporting facilities. Campus maps showing the location of the designated smoking areas are available on the Towards Smoke-Free webpage.

How many designated areas will be on each campus?
There are between two and seven designated smoking areas on each campus, depending on the size of the campus, and the student and staff population on that campus.

Will the policy apply on weekends?
Yes, the policy will apply at all times.

Will UWS help me to reduce or quit smoking?
Yes, UWS supports the efforts of staff and students wanting to reduce or quit smoking. UWS offers individual counselling to staff via the Employee Assistance program, and to students via UWS Counselling. A range of resources are also available on the Reducing or Quitting Smoking Page (opens in a new window).

Will UWS eventually go completely smoke-free?
It is possible – the UWS Tobacco Working Group will explore that option during its annual review of the University’s policy regarding smoking on campus.

Does the policy apply to visitors as well?
Yes, the policy applies to anyone on UWS grounds, including visitors, contractors and suppliers. If you are hosting an event or meeting, please make sure that any visitors are aware of the UWS Environmental Tobacco Smoke Policy. Likewise, please advise any contractors or suppliers you invite onto campus.

What about the rights of smokers?
The University recognises that staff and students have a right to choose whether to smoke. The University also recognises that non-smoking staff and students have the right to work and study without exposure to environmental tobacco smoke.