BAG BANS ACROSS AUSTRALIA The National Retail Association (NRA) is dedicated to helping retailers transition away from lightweight plastic shopping bags.

Seven of eight Australian states or territories have bag bans in place. 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.

The NRA has officially partnered with the NSW Government to assist retailers throughout the transition.

Learn more: www.dpie.nsw.gov.au/plastics-ban

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.

The NRA officially partnered with the Victorian Government to assist retailers throughout the transition.

The NRA developed a dedicated website of information, resources and signage at www.vicbagban.com.au.

QUEENSLAND

Bag ban introduced 1 July 2018

On 1 July 2018, the Queensland Government introduced a ban on lightweight plastic shopping bags less than 35 microns thick, including degradable, biodegradable and compostable bags.

The NRA provided a comprehensive education program leading up to the ban and continues to work with the state government to assist in retail compliance.

QLD retailers should visit the NRA's QLD Bag Ban Website to download resources and signage. Consumers can also report suspected banned bags 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.

Learn more: plasticsbanwa.com.au

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Bag ban introduced May 2009

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.

SA retailers should review the legislation at the link below.

SA is also currently reviewing its policy on other single-use plastic items: http://www.greenindustries.sa.gov.au/priorities/plastics

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

Bag ban introduced Nov 2011

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.

ACT retailers should review the legislation at the link below.

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.

 

CONTACT THE NRA:  1800 738 245   or   sustainability@nra.net.au

CONTACT THE NRA'S BAG BAN HOTLINE:  1800 817 723

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