ACT Government commences next phase of single use plastics ban

The next phase of the Act Government’s single-use plastics ban came into effect on 1st July banning the sale, supply and distribution of single-use plastic plates and bowls, expanded polystyrene loose fill packaging and expanded polystyrene trays and plastic microbeads in rinse-off personal care and cleaning products.

ACT Minister for Transport and City Services Chris Steel notes “The Canberra community and businesses have strongly embraced the phase-out of single-use plastics so far, and are ready to take the next steps.

“In a further step to progress lasting change, the ACT Government will also ban all heavyweight plastic and boutique shopping bags greater than 35 microns thick from 1st January 2024.

“The response from large retailers like Woolworths has been vital in shifting away from single-use plastic and influencing suppliers to use more sustainable materials, which reduces waste going to landfill or littered in our environment.”

On behalf of the ACT Government, the National Retail Association (NRA) is providing an education-first approach and visiting 1600 retailers by 31st December 2023, providing information and resources to help them with the transition.

This industry engagement is largely focused on suppliers and small to medium or independent retailers, as well as culturally and linguistically diverse retailers, representing a significant proportion of businesses impacted by the ban.

A 12-month single-use plastic hotline (1800 844 946) is available during business hours from 9.00am to 5.00pm to provide telephone advice to support businesses and other organisations that comply with the legislative requirements.

The ACT Government is also working to finalise Canberra’s first Circular Economy Strategy, which will guide future decisions on how to better cut waste, and strengthen businesses to promote sustainable practices and jobs.

For more information on the ACT’s ban on selected single-use plastics, and for a range of resources to help make the switch, visit: www.act.gov.au/single-use-plastics.