The State Government of Western Australia has expanded its ban on non-compostable plastic barrier bags, extending restrictions to cover nuts and confectionery. The measure builds on earlier rules that prohibited these bags for loose fruit and vegetables in October 2024.
Barrier bags, often referred to as produce bags, are commonly used in grocery stores for loose fruit, vegetables, and other unpackaged items. Before restrictions were introduced, Western Australians used an estimated 115 million plastic barrier bags annually, with most ending up in landfill or as litter, contaminating recycling and Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) systems.
The updated rules also introduce new design standards for compostable barrier bags. These standards ensure that compliant bags can be reused as liners in FOGO collection systems.
The ban applies to all businesses, manufacturers, retailers, and distributors supplying barrier bags for loose or unpackaged goods in Western Australia. Exemptions remain for certain products, including reusable barrier bags, plastic bread bags, prepackaged produce, on-shelf packaged bags, and ziplock bags for dry goods.
Retailers and consumers are expected to transition to alternative packaging options such as reusable containers, paper bags, boxes, or compostable barrier bags.
For more information:
Government of Western Australia
Tel: +61 1300 733 056
Email: [email protected]
www.wa.gov.au