From 1 November 2022 NSW moves into the next stage with a number of food service items being phased out including:

• Single-use plastic straws*, stirrers and cutlery
• Single-use plastic plates and bowls
• Expanded polystyrene foodware.

These changes follow the ban on lightweight plastic bags that took place earlier this year in June 2022.

The harsh reality is that plastic packaging and single-use plastic items make up 60% of all litter in NSW

The ban on these single-use plastics are the first steps in making sure our oceans, natural environment and wildlife aren’t as threatened by plastic in the future.

The good news is many of us have already kicked the single-use plastic habit by pledging to swap them out.

If you notice a local business still using these plastic items, be kind and let them know about the ban in NSW. The NSW Government has resources online to help everyone make the transition.

So now’s the time to start creating good habits by bringing your reusable items everywhere and nudging your favourite local businesses to start accepting reusables.

And next time you get takeaway, try taking your own reusable container with you to start the discussion with your local food shop.

• See which plastics each state has committed to ban, by when, in the report card below.

Having a party?

You could also follow some handy tips from Childmags to have a successful plastic free event!

To find out more about the plastic ban, visit NSW Government’s website

Victoria starting February 2023

Western Australia

See also:

Corrs, Chambers, Westgarth

Marine Conservation Organisation

*Exemptions will apply for providing a plastic straw for people with a disability or medical need.