WA PLASTICS BANS STAGE 2 (2023-26)

In February 2023, the WA Government passed regulations to phase out more single-use plastic items, including coffee cups and containers, over the next 3 years.

The National Retail Association team is working with the WA Government to assist businesses preparing for the bans through a dedicated website, business resources, a toll free hotline and answering questions via these online information sessions.

Comprehensive information about the ban: https://plasticsbanwa.com.au/

Summary of the Stage 2 bans

Phase 2a – Supply banned by 1 September 2023

Degradable plastic (incl. oxo-degradable and landfill degradable)
Cotton buds with plastic shafts
Microbeads
EPS cups and EPS in food and beverage packaging (including meat trays)
Loose-fill expanded plastic packaging (incl. all expanded or foamed plastic packaging eg. EPS, EPE, EPP, bioplastic EPS)

Phase 2b – Supply banned by 1 March 2024

Takeaway coffee cups (excl. AU-certified lined paper cups)
Cup Lids and seals – hot & cold drinks (including plastic-coated lids)
Plastic trays for takeaway food not covered in the Stage 1 ban

Phase 2c – Supply banned by 1 September 2024

Lids, windows and heat-sealed film for takeaway food containers, trays and bowls (excl. AU-certified lined paper lids)
Lidded food containers, trays and bowls for takeaway and eat-in applications. There is a limited exclusion that allows plastic lids/windows for takeaway food that is pre-packed and placed on display for sale.
Fresh fruit and vegetable produce bags (excl. AU-certified compostable produce bags)

Phase 2d – Supply banned by 1 July 2025

Moulded expanded plastic packaging (incl. all expanded or foamed plastic packaging eg. EPS, EPE, EPP, bioplastic EPS)

Phase 2e - Supply banned by 1 October 2025

the sale or supply of non-compostable barrier bags that do not meet the required design standard, that are used for:
- loose fruit and vegetables
- loose dry nuts and confectionery products

Phase 2f - Supply banned by 1 October 2026

the sale or supply of non-compostable barrier bags that do not meet the required design standard, that are used for:
- loose/unpackaged meat, seafood and dairy products

Some specific exemptions apply.

Comprehensive information about the ban: https://plasticsbanwa.com.au/

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Free info sessions for business

This regular session is designed for businesses of any size or type which is impacted by the WA Plastics Ban. These sessions are a great opportunity to ask questions about the ban and receive informed advice from our expert team.

All sessions are held online via Zoom (you will receive a link after registering).
Our sessions are open and free to all retailers and suppliers impacted by the ban.

Queries: Email us at sustainability@nationalretail.org.au

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Other state-based plastic bans

The National Retail team are the leading industry experts on plastics bans across Australia, working with all levels of government, and can answer your curly questions on current and proposed bans across Australia and New Zealand.

If you are affected by bans across multiple states, check out what other online sessions we may be holding.

We also provide regular updates on plastic bans and sustainability initiatives rolling out across Australia and New Zealand. Subscribe for our sustainability updates >

Contact the host of WA Plastics Ban Stage 2 - Information Sessions