Every day, my family and I walk through the Woolworth area and train station tunnel in Berala, New South Wales, and every day, we are forced to inhale passive smoke. The other day, I had to stop my youngest from picking up a cigarette butt. This is unacceptable. Our community deserves to breathe clean air, without the risk of inhaling harmful second-hand smoke.

The areas surrounding Berala, including the train station tunnel, are frequented by many families and children. It's not just the close proximity to shops and supermarket entrances, these areas are not even fully outdoor spaces, compounding the exposure to cigarette smoke. Cafes and public spots are regularly filled with people smoking, making it impossible to escape the clouds of smoke lingering in the air.

Exposure to second-hand smoke is a health hazard that can lead to a multitude of diseases. According to the World Health Organization, passive smoke is responsible for heart disease, respiratory infections, and lung cancer, among other serious health issues. Children are particularly vulnerable, with the potential for developing asthma and other respiratory problems. We cannot ignore these risks and must take action to prevent harm to our community—especially our children.

Making the Woolworth and surrounding areas smoke-free would protect the health and well-being of everyone who visits and lives nearby. Cities around the world have successfully implemented smoke-free zones that safeguard public health without compromising on personal freedom. There are alternative smoking areas that can be designated away from high-traffic pedestrian zones and business entrances.

This petition calls upon the local government authorities and business owners in Berala to introduce smoke-free laws in these areas. Our goal is to ensure that the Woolworth vicinity, train station tunnel, and surrounding areas become a clean, healthy, and enjoyable environment for all.

Please sign this petition to make our community a healthier place to live in and protect our children from the dangers of second-hand smoke.