Draft Regulation Impact Statement: Trade Practices (Consumer Product Information Standard) - Tobacco

Date:

Content ID:

Abstract:

Public comment is invited on a new regulatory proposal for health warnings on tobacco products. The proposal covers the introduction of larger graphic warnings for tobacco products, a new rotation system for health warnings and a new information message on the side of the pack to provide consumers with qualitative information on the toxicity of tobacco smoke. For a copy of the Draft Regulation Impact Statement visit the consumersonline website.

The main features of the proposed new regulations are:

• A new set of graphic health warnings to cover either 50% of the front and back of the pack or 30% of the front and 90% of the back of the pack" PDF Downloads at the bottom of the page.
• A new rotation system for health warnings in order to optimise consumer learning and awareness of the health effects of smoking. This would involve the use of 7 messages in the first year of the new warnings, then the resting of these messages and use of another 7 messages in the second year. Messages are also to be rotated within brands over each 12 month period.
• A new information message to go on the side of cigarette packs, along the lines of 'Smoking exposes you to more than 40 harmful chemicals. These chemicals restrict blood flow and damage the body’s immune cells and immune system.' This will replace the current listings of tar, nicotine and carbon monoxide on packs and provide consumers with qualitative information on the chemicals in tobacco smoke and a website reference for more information.
• The inclusion of the national Quitline number and website on the pack.
• A set of new health warnings specifically for cigars intended to increase the awareness of consumers of the health risks of smoking cigars.
• Extension of the coverage of tobacco products to include all products which contain tobacco and are manufactured in Australia or imported into Australia for commercial use.

Submission closing date: Friday 19 March 2004

Address written comments to:

Consumer Safety Unit
Strategy, Consumer and Group Services Division
The Treasury
Langton Crescent
PARKES ACT 2600
Fax: 02 6263 2830
Phone: 02 6263 2747

Email: recalls@recalls.gov.au

Documents Available:

 Acrobat (PDF)

 Winzip (ZIP)

Related Items: