WA Set to Ban Single

Western Australia will become the first State to ban single-use plastic promotional film in outdoor settings as part of its nation-leading Plan for Plastics.

The ban will apply to material used for promotional purposes such as political elections and retail signage. It will come into effect from March 2024.

It only relates to the purchase or use of the material outdoors for less than 48 hours, which is harmful to the environment when it is not disposed of correctly.

Safety bunting like police tape or long-term signage is not included in the ban, as well as the indoor use of plastic promotional film.

WA's nation-leading Plan for Plastics has phased out 18 items, saving more than 1.1 million single-use plastics from landfill or litter across the State each year.

WA's major political parties each used up to 1,000 rolls or 50 kilometres of single-use plastic promotional film during last year's Federal Election.

Alternatives include corflute, re-usable cloth banners and signs, wood pulp lined board and online promotional material.

The regulations are yet to be finalised. The State Government will continue to use a common-sense, education-first approach to enforce the bans. Retailers and suppliers not making any plans or effort to transition and deliberately continuing to supply banned items could face fines up to $5,000 for an individual or up to $25,000 for a body corporate.

For more information, visit: www.wa.gov.au/service/environment/business-and-community-assistance/western-australias-plan-plastics

As stated by Environment Minister Reece Whitby:

"I'm proud our State continues to lead the way in tackling plastic waste. We want to ensure Western Australia sets the benchmark in encouraging environmentally friendly alternatives.

"Political bunting is not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to break down. We need to reduce unnecessary waste that is only used for the short-term.

"This is the next step in our journey to become a more sustainable State. It's about creating positive behavioural changes that together make a big difference."