Transition dates revealed for Stage 2 of WA’s plastics ban

The transition dates have been revealed for Stage 2 of Western Australia's ban on plastics.

Items targeted in Stage 2 include non-compostable plastic takeaway coffee cups, plastic produce bags, cotton buds with plastic stems, expanded polystyrene packaging, expanded polystyrene cups, microbeads, degradable plastics, unlidded trays as well as lids for takeaway bowls, plates, cups, trays and containers, excluding pre-packaged food such as sandwiches and sushi.

From February 27, transition periods ranging from six to 28 months will begin to allow businesses to use up supplies and source alternative products before the bans are enforced.

The enforcement dates will range from September 1, 2023 and  July 1, 2025. 

“We can be proud our State continues to lead the way in tackling single-use plastics. Western Australians have truly embraced our Plan for Plastics, and this is another positive step in reducing our impact on the environment," Environment Minister Reece Whitby.

Stage 1 will save 430 million single-use plastics from landfill or litter in WA  each year while Stage 2 will save an additional 700 million items annually. 

More than 9000 retailers, suppliers and community groups received support during Stage 1 through the National Retail Association.

The Boomerang Alliance, in partnership with the State Government, is helping the hospitality industry adapt over three years through the WA Plastic 
Free Places program.

Similar support programs will be available for Stage 2.

 The State Government will continue to use a common-sense, education-first approach to enforce the bans.

Retailers and suppliers not making any plans or effort to transition and deliberately continuing to supply banned items could face fines up to $5,000 for an individual or up to $25,000 for a body corporate. 

For more information on WA’s Plan for Plastics, click here.