From Wednesday 1 February 2023, these single-use plastic items will be banned in Victoria:
- single-use plastic drinking straws
- single-use plastic drink stirrers
- single-use plastic cutlery
- single-use plastic plates
- single-use plastic cotton buds
- food or drink packaging made from expanded polystyrene.
The ban applies to businesses and organisations including not-for-profits, government, sports clubs, schools, and others that are incorporated.
The exception to this ban is:
Single-use plastic items which are part of food or drink packagings, such as a straw on the side of a juice box or a single-use plastic spoon included in a yogurt tub, will be allowed for another three years.
Further information
Reports of businesses still using single-use plastics
This is a Victorian Government ban and Council is not responsible for enforcement.
CSO:
- Advise the customer to call EPA which is the responsible agency for enforcing businesses that are not complying.
- They can report the issue by phoning 1300 372 842 or by emailing contact@epa.vic.gov.au
- www.epa.vic.gov.au
Support and information for businesses
The Victorian Government engaged The National Retail Association (NRA) to help impacted businesses understand and prepare for the ban.
The following websites will be useful to businesses:
- Visit www.vic.gov.au/plastics to read FAQs & download resources (including translated materials):
- Contact the NRA’s Plastic Ban Hotline on Ph: 800 844 946
- Visit www.epa.vic.gov.au