LA TROBE University will ban smoking on all campuses as of next month, which it says will set a precedent for healthier communities among young people.
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From May 31, all staff, students and visitors will be prohibited from smoking on university campuses, including outdoor areas.
Bendigo vice-chancellor Professor John Dewar said it was a matter of "leading by example" and would address several concerns including fire hazards and secondhand smoke on campuses.
"There is irrefutable medical evidence that secondhand smoke causes serious diseases and harm to others," he said.
"In addition, smoking poses both a fire hazard and environmental risk to the flora and fauna on our beautiful campuses. The policy will also address concerns about cigarette smoke streams entering into buildings through windows, entrances and ventilation systems."
He said temporary designated smoking areas would be provided as part of a transition arrangement.
"We are introducing this policy to (ensure) we meet our responsibility to provide a safe environment to our community," he said.
“It follows consultation and feedback and is supported by members of the university community.
"We recognise that quitting smoking can be a significant personal challenge and we will provide support for staff and students who wish to quit."
Some other Victorian universities have banned smoking, but the La Trobe University ban is the first state-wide initiative.
VicHealth chief executive Jerril Rechter said while it might be met with resistance from some, no amount of criticism would outweigh the benefit of the ban. She said one in five people aged from 18 to 25 smoked, compared to one in 10 aged above 50.
Ms Rechter said these figures showed the importance of targeting young smokers.
"This is about reducing the normalisation of smoking and continuing the movement towards a generation of people who don't smoke," she said.
"It will also help reduce the litigation surrounding secondhand smoke and increase productivity by reducing unauthorised smoke breaks."
She said the move came alongside other statewide measures and bans to reduce smoking.
"Smoking kills you and it's not fair for people to be exposed to it in public places."
