Why is it important?
Our research found Aboriginal mothers in Western Sydney wanted to do more to protect their family from breathing in cigarette smoke near the home. This is also known as 'passive smoking'.
Even though some people may smoke only in one room inside a home, or right outside an open door or window, they considered their home to be ‘smoke free’. Many people are not aware that cigarette smoke drifts and can be harmful when breathed in.
What did we do?
We worked with our local Aboriginal community to develop a “Smoke-free home” campaign. We involved pregnant or young mothers, Aboriginal staff and local Aboriginal health organisations.
The campaign aimed to reduce smoking around the home to prevent exposure to passive smoke. A 45-second cartoon highlighted three main messages, including:
- Don’t smoke close to the home
- Smoke drifts further than you think
- Your smoke harms others.
Watch the Smoke-free home cartoon
How did we share the Smoke-free at home message?
Local Aboriginal community members shared the cartoon with family and friends via social media. Local organisations also shared the cartoon on their social media pages and websites.
The cartoon screened in cinemas and GP waiting rooms in Blacktown, Mount Druitt and Parramatta. Smoke-free home posters were also displayed on local buses, at train and bus stops and in Aboriginal community health centres. The campaign ran between December 2019 to October 2020.
Vickie Thomson (Aboriginal Health Worker) shares her thoughts about the campaign
How can you help?
Join others and help share the smoke-free messages to your Aboriginal community!
The cartoon, posters and character images are free to use! Share with your friends and family on social media!
Get in touch with the Tobacco Control team on 9840 3603.
Sharing the Smoke-free home message on a Blacktown and Mount Druitt bus route.
Poster on display at Blacktown Station.