Most states and territories have banned single-use plastic straws, utensils, plates and unlidded bowls over the past few years.
Some states allowed additional time for attached or integrated items in shelf-ready or pre-packaged products, such as plastic straws attached to juice boxes and plastic spoons enclosed in yoghurt containers.
Most businesses have already removed these items or replaced them with compliant alternatives.
Reminder: Please remember that this exemption for integrated items in shelf-ready products was time-limited across multiple states:
- NSW exemption ended 31 Dec 2024
- SA exemption ended 31 Aug 2025
- QLD and VIC exemptions end 31 Dec 2025
Need help?
The National Retail Association are currently engaged by the WA and QLD Governments to help businesses understand and comply with current plastic bans. Please attend our online information sessions or contact our team at sustainability@nationalretail.org.au.
For queries about plastic bans in other states, please contact that government directly.