AUSTRALIA’S PLASTIC BAN – HOW PREPARED IS YOUR BUSINESS?
In recent years, Australia has been taking significant steps to reduce plastic waste, with a particular focus on single-use plastics. These regulations target everyday items such as straws, cutlery, and food and beverage containers. As of now, most states and territories have banned or are phasing out single-use plastic items, with an emphasis on finding environmentally friendly alternatives.
For businesses in the hospitality and gaming industries, it’s essential to stay informed about these changes to ensure compliance and support sustainability. The legislation primarily aims to reduce plastic waste entering the environment and to promote the use of compostable, recyclable, or reusable alternatives.
New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland
These states have all implemented bans on single-use plastic straws, cutlery, and expanded polystyrene (EPS) food containers.
- NSW: Since November 2022, plastic plates, straws, stirrers, and EPS food and drink containers have been banned.
- VIC: In February 2023, a similar ban came into effect, also covering oxo-degradable plastics.
- QLD: Since 2021, Queensland has banned plastic cutlery, straws, stirrers, and EPS containers, with discussions to expand to coffee cups, produce bags, and more
South Australia and Western Australia
Both states have been proactive in expanding their bans over time:
- SA: As of September 2024, SA has banned plastic food containers, bags, and EPS cups. By 2025, soy sauce containers and non-compostable fruit stickers will also be prohibited.
- WA: WA’s phased bans started in 2022. Since September 2024, plastic bowls, takeaway containers, and lined paper cartons are prohibited, with more bans extending to 2025
Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and Tasmania (TAS):
- ACT: ACT banned plastic straws, cutlery, plates, and EPS containers/cups in July 2021. Upcoming bans (November 2024) will target heavyweight plastic bags and plastic-coated paper items.
- TAS: Though there is no statewide ban, Hobart has taken the lead by banning single-use plastic containers, cups, and cutlery, with statewide legislation anticipated.
Northern Territory (NT):
- NT: NT has yet to introduce formal bans on single-use plastics but is expected to follow suit as regulations in other states set a precedent.
Navigating these state-by-state regulations can be challenging, but Choice Paper is here to support your business. Our sustainable packaging range is designed to meet all new legislative requirements across Australia. Whether you need compostable food containers, recyclable beverage cups, or eco-friendly cutlery, our products provide a compliant, sustainable solution tailored to your needs.
https://choicepaper.com.au/products/
