SMOKERS who light up on patrolled Victorian beaches this summer could be fined $140.

The state government introduced legislation into Parliament yesterday banning smoking between and within 50 metres of the flags.

Health groups back the ban. Credit:James Boddington

It follows similar moves in Western Australia, Tasmania and Queensland.

Victorian Health Minister David Davis said both sides of politics supported measures to reduce smoking rates and he hoped the bill would pass Parliament before Christmas in time for the summer break.