Single-use shopping bag ban in Victoria was introduced on 1 January 2019, and includes all lightweight shopping bags which have a thickness of 35 microns or less at any part of the bag, including degradable, biodegradable and compostable bags.

However, regulations have been passed that ban the sale or supply of a wide range of single-use plastic items in Victoria. The new regulations will apply from 1 February 2023.

• Single-use plastic straws
• Single-use plastic cutlery
• Single-use plastic plates
• Single-use plastic beverage stirrers and sticks
• Single-use plastic expanded polystyrene food and drink containers
• Single-use plastic cotton bud sticks

The ban will include plastic items made from conventional, degradable and compostable plastics such as bioplastics.

Sustainability Victoria recommends businesses run down current stocks of the banned items in preparation for the ban, and avoid ordering any more of these items.

There are several proposed exemptions to the ban. Some of those include:

1. Single-use plastic drinking straws for people who need them due to a disability or for medical reasons
2. Single-use plastic cotton bud sticks for testing carried out for scientific, medical, forensic or law enforcement purposes
3. Single-use plastic cutlery, where required, in correctional and mental health facilities to prevent physical harm or injury
4. Until 1 November 2024, paper or cardboard plates lined with plastic
5. Until 1 January 2026, any single use plastic item that is integrated into food or drink packaging (e.g., a single-use plastic spoon included in a yogurt tub).

• Factsheet: Single-use plastic ban
• FAQ: Single-use plastic guide for business
• Customer Postcard on Single-use plastic ban
• VIC Government Website
• Environment Protection Amendment Regulations 2022
• National Retail Association (NRA) Support for businesses

The Victorian Government will first work with businesses to ensure they understand their obligations. However penalties apply for non-compliance.

Penalties apply for both offences, ranging from 60 penalty units for a natural person to 300 penalty for a body corporate.

The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) will enforce the ban. From 1 February 2023, non-compliance can be reported to the EPA via epa.vic.gov.au or by calling 1300 372 842.

The Victorian Government in association with the National Retail Association (NRA) is delivering a range or resources and activities to help businesses and organisations with the transition. Resources include a dedicated team to visit retailers and hospitality businesses, hosting a toll-free hotline, and holding information sessions every Friday at 11 am AEDT from the 14th October, 2022.

Our team can help your business through these changes. Get in touch today, or contact your local state or authority!

Disclaimer: Please check with your local / state authority for “Single-Use Plastic Bans” before purchasing any products from Castaway®.