Single-use plastic film banned in WA from March 2024

Western Australia will become the first State to ban single-use plastic promotional film in outdoor settings as part of its Plan for Plastics.

The ban will apply to material used for promotional purposes, such as political elections and retail signage. It will come into effect from March 2024. “Political bunting is not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to break down. We need to reduce unnecessary waste that is only used for the short-term,” said Reece Whitby, Environment Minister for WA. The ban will only relate to the purchase or use of the material outdoors for less than 48 hours, which is harmful to the environment when it is not disposed of correctly. Safety bunting like police tape or long-term signage will not be included in the ban, additionally the indoor use of plastic promotional film will not be banned. 

WA's Plan for Plastics has phased out 18 items, saving more than 1.1 million single-use plastics from landfill or litter across the State each year. The state’s major political parties each used up to 1,000 rolls or 50 kilometres of single-use plastic promotional film during last year's Federal Election.  "This is the next step in our journey to become a more sustainable State. It's about creating positive behavioural changes that together make a big difference,” added Minister Whitby.

Allowed alternatives will include corflute, re-usable cloth banners and signs, wood pulp lined board. The regulations are yet to be finalised. The State Government said it will use a common-sense, education-first approach to enforce the bans. Retailers and suppliers that do not make an effort to transition and deliberately continue to supply banned items could face fines up to $5,000 for an individual or up to $25,000 for a body corporate.

"I'm proud our State continues to lead the way in tackling plastic waste. We want to ensure Western Australia sets the benchmark in encouraging environmentally friendly alternatives,” concluded Minister Whitby.