Filled-onsite plastic ‘cans’ banned (WA)

This includes the sale or supply of single‑use plastic cups of any shape, and their lids, including those made from plastic-lined paper or bioplastic. This ban came into effect from 1 October 2022.

Penalties apply for the sale, supply, or distribution of banned plastic cups in WA. Penalties also apply to any person who knowingly provides false or misleading information about banned items.

Filled-onsite plastic cans

Plastic beverage containers with sealed lids, which are sealed onsite (dine-in or takeaway) are considered lidded plastic cups and are therefore banned under Western Australia’s ​Environmental Protection (Prohibited Plastics and Balloons) Regulations 2018.

For example, a plastic can which is filled with iced coffee or juice in-store for a customer’s order and then sealed with a plastic or metal lid or top has been a banned plastic cup since 1 October 2022.

Example image only

Plastic beverage containers which are already packaged and sealed when they arrive at store or before customer order are not banned.

Plastic cans which are sealed instore are not eligible for the Containers for Change program, and products with mixed materials ​also unlikely to be eligible.

Ban enforcement

Most of the WA plastic bans have now been in effect for 2-3 years, and thousands of WA businesses are commended for transitioning to compliant alternatives. WA environmental officers are currently working with retailers and suppliers to ensure compliance with the Regulations and to remove non-compliant plastic cans from sale in Western Australia.

Members of the public may also report suspected non-compliant items to the WA Department of Water and Environmental Regulation via: complianceforplastics@dwer.wa.gov.au or call 08 6364 7000.

Business assistance

• More information on the bans and allowed alternatives >
• If you still have queries, please attend National Retail’s monthly information sessions or call their hotline: 1800 817 723.
• To find ban-compliant reusable and disposable options, visit the Ban Solution Finder website: https://www.bansolutionfinder.org/

You can also contact the WA Department of Water and Environmental Regulation for general plastic enquiries via email: plastic‑action@dwer.wa.gov.au or call 08 6364 7000.