Frequently Asked Questions

What are Fresh Air Zones?

To make Murdoch a healthier environment for everyone, Fresh Air Zones have been introduced across large areas of the South Street and Rockingham campuses.

From July 2013, smoking is no longer permitted within these zones. Peel campus continues to be completely smoke-free.

We ask that you try and avoid smoking on campus completely. If you must smoke, please do so outside the Fresh Air Zones, which are signposted throughout campus and marked on maps.

How is Murdoch University informing the community about the new policy?

Murdoch University will actively promote the new policy among staff, students, visitors and the general public. This will occur in a number of ways including:

  • posters and signage across all campuses
  • brochures and printed resources
  • staff and student email announcements
  • The Exchange (for staff)
  • Murdoch University’s website and social media channels
  • orientation activities for new staff and students
  • special seminars and events
  • media releases

Why isn’t the whole campus smoke free?

Murdoch University’s main campus at South Street covers 227 hectares, making it the largest campus in Australia. In developing the smoke free environment policy, a number of challenges were identified relating to the sheer size of the University grounds, and its surrounding area.

By banning smoking on the entirety of the campus, those wishing to smoke would have to travel a significant distance, potentially disrupting University activities.

Furthermore, a campus-wide ban may encourage smokers to move into areas of pristine bushland to smoke, potentially increasing the fire risk. Similarly, some may have opted to smoke in areas where traffic hazards are present, such as car parks and along main roads.

The Fresh Air Zones encompass the vast majority of University buildings and the areas between them. Notable exceptions include the Student Village and the existing smoking area of the Tavern. These zones operate in addition to Western Australian laws which prohibit smoking in enclosed areas.
The policy will be regularly reviewed to take into account the best interests of the University community.

What other areas are smoke-free?

A number of areas adjacent to the Fresh Air Zones do not permit smoking. These include Murdoch College and Kennedy Baptist College, along with the Rise building (formerly the Murdoch Executive Education Centre). The neighbouring Wesfarmers site, on Campus Drive, promotes a smoke-free environment, as does the Fiona Stanley Hospital.

How will the policy be enforced?

Enforcement is the responsibility of the entire University community.

People smoking within the Fresh Air Zones, or on any part of the Peel campus, will be informed of the new policy and asked to move.  Those refusing to move, along with those who breach the policy numerous times, will be reported to management. Disciplinary action can be taken.

What should I do if I see someone smoking?

Some people may take a while to adjust to the new policy, and so may inadvertently break the rules. Before challenging anyone about their behaviour, ensure that you understand the policy yourself.  You can download it here (LINK COMING SOON).

If you feel comfortable doing so, politely inform the person that they are in an area where smoking is not permitted. Direct them to a sign, poster, campus map or the website for more information. A set of guidelines has been created suggesting a number of ways to broach this sensitive subject.

Murdoch University has also developed a reminder card for smokers, which may be a useful talking point when discussing the issue. These can be ordered via email, or picked up a number of locations around campus.

I want help to quit smoking, where do I go?

There are a number of places you can go for resources and support, both on and off campus. These are all listed on the Murdoch website at http://goto.murdoch.edu.au/freshair.

The Health and Counselling Centre, located adjacent to the Tavern is a useful starting point for those at South Street campus. Students can make an appointment with a health professional, or pick up some more information. Staff and visitors are welcome to pick up some free brochures.

Staff are also eligible for free counselling through Murdoch University's Employee Assistance Program. Call People Sense on 1300 887 724, or visit the website.

Your General Practitioner can give you specific medical advice to help you quit smoking. A number of organisations also provide free support including:

Those with private health cover through BUPA may be eligible to receive benefits for nicotine replacement therapies.

Who do I contact if I have a question, feedback or want to order resources?

Email your query to freshair@murdoch.edu.au and it will be passed on to the most appropriate person.