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 will have bag bans in place by the end of 2019.
In partnership with each state government, the NRA is currently assisting retailers in QLD, WA and VIC, as well as national retailers.
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
No bag ban
At this point, the NSW Government has decided not to introduce a ban on lightweight plastic bags.
The NRA believes that it is important to have consistent legislation across Australia to reduce plastic pollution and provide certainty for retailers of all sizes.
Retailers who believe NSW should introduce consistent bag ban legislation should contact the NSW Minister for the Environment, Minister for Local Government, and Minister for Heritage.
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 has officially partnered with the Victorian Government to assist retailers throughout the transition.
The NRA have 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
Bag ban introduced Jan 2019
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.
WA retailers had 6 months to phase out existing stock with fines applicable from 1 January 2019.
The NRA officially partnered with the WA Government to assist retailers throughout the transition and will continue to assist retailers with compliance when the ban comes into effect.
WA retailers should visit the NRA's dedicated Bag Ban WA Website to download resources and signage. Consumers can also report a suspected banned bag via this website from 1 January 2019.
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.
BAG BANS ACROSS THE WORLD
At least 32 countries around the world have plastic bag bans in place.
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 info@nra.net.au
CONTACT THE NRA'S BAG BAN HOTLINE: 1800 817 723
