BAG BANS ACROSS AUSTRALIA
All Australian states or territories have bag bans in place, however there are differences in rules across the jurisdictions. Scroll down to find out more about bag bans in each state.
Click on your state to find out about bag bans in your area (external links).
BAG BANS ACROSS AUSTRALIA
NEW SOUTH WALES
Ban came into effect 1 June 2022
The NSW Government introduced a ban on all lightweight plastic shopping bags which have a thickness of 35 microns or less, including degradable, biodegradable and compostable bags.
VICTORIA
Bag ban introduced 1 November 2019
On 1 November, the Victorian Government introduced a state-wide ban on all lightweight plastic shopping bags which have a thickness of 35 microns or less, including degradable, biodegradable and compostable bags.
QUEENSLAND
New ban 1 Sept 2023
Lightweight plastic shopping bags were banned in QLD in 2018. Any plastic shopping bag must be 35 microns or more in thickness to meet the existing law.
Updated requirements:
From 1 September 2023, shopping bags made from plastic film need to meet TWO additional requirements to be supplied in QLD:
- Be made from a minimum of 80% recycled content verified by a recognised program or certification
AND
- Be durable and big enough to carry 10 kilograms for at least 125 uses verified by a recognised reusability, durability or endurance test.
QLD retailers should visit the NRA's QLD Ban Website to find out more, download resources and signage. Consumers can also report suspected banned items on the website.
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
New ban 1 July 2022
In July 2018, the Western Australian Government introduced a ban on lightweight plastic bags with a thickness of 35 microns or less, including degradable, biodegradable and compostable bags.
From 1 July 2022, ALL plastic shopping bags with handles are banned in WA, regardless of thickness. This replaces the previous regulations.
WA retailers should visit the NRA's WA Ban Website to find out more, download resources and signage.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
New ban 1 Sept 2024
In 2009, South Australia lead the way by introducing a state-wide ban on lightweight plastic bags less than 35 microns thick. The ban does not include biodegradable bags.
From 1 September 2024, all plastic shopping bags are banned in South Australia, except those which are certified as compostable. Some time-limited exemptions apply for charity organisations.
NORTHERN TERRITORY
Bag ban introduced Sept 2011
In 2011, the Northern Territory introduced a state-wide ban on lightweight plastic bags with a thickness less than 35 microns including degradable bags. The ban does not include biodegradable bags.
NT retailers should review the legislation at the link below.
TASMANIA
Bag ban introduced Nov 2013
In 2013, the Tasmanian Government introduced a state-wide ban on lightweight plastic bags less than 35 microns thick. The ban does not include biodegradable or compostable plastic bags.
TAS retailers should review the legislation at the link below.
Recently Hobart City Council has introduced by-laws which ban a wide range of single-use plastic items. See more information here: https://www.hobartcity.com.au/Business/Food-businesses/Single-Use-Plastics-By-Law-Information
ACT
New ban 1 Jan 2024
In 2011, the ACT Government introduced a state-wide ban on lightweight plastic bags less than 35 microns thick. The ban does not include biodegradable bags.
From 1 January 2024, all plastic shopping bags are banned from supply in the ACT.
About the National Retail Association
ABOUT THE NRA
The National Retail Association is a not-for-profit organisation that represents the interests of retailers across Australia.
We exist to support, inform, protect and represent the interests of retailers including food retailers. We understand the issues and opportunities facing retailers every day.
NRA Members can expect to receive the latest industry information, the fastest news updates and the best range of industry insights to help their business grow and succeed.
The retail industry plays a huge role in Australia’s economy, employment and greater livelihood and we are dedicated to helping unite retailers and stakeholders for the success of the industry now, and for the future.
