A non-smoking working environment was initiated following advice from the Office of
the Public Service Board, Canberra in 1984. A draft 'Smoking in the Workplace Policy'
was issued in 1985 to all Northern Territory Public Service Departments by the Public
Service Commissioner prescribing minimum requirements for departments to limit
smoking in office areas.
The former Department of Community Development and Department of Health
commenced discussions on a local policy. The first policy was introduced by the
Department of Health in April, 1986. This was not effectively implemented and an
amended policy was introduced on 31 August 1987. During 1989 policies within
central and regional offices were at various stages of implementation. On 31 May
1990 a policy statement was issued by the Minister for Health and Community
Services declaring a smoke free work environment within all buildings, offices and
vehicles within the Department of Health and Community Services.