From 1 February 2023, problematic single-use plastics will be banned from sale or supply in
Victoria.
The ban applies to single-use plastic drinking straws, cutlery, plates, drink stirrers and cotton
bud sticks made from conventional, degradable, and compostable plastics. The ban also applies
to food service items and drink containers made from expanded polystyrene.
Single-use plastics make up a third of the litter in our streets and waterways. They remain in the
environment for a long time, harming our wildlife and contaminating our food and water. This
ban will also help reduce plastic waste and contamination at recycling facilities.
Compostable plastics, such as biodegradable plastics, degradable plastics, renewable plastics,
and bioplastics are included in the ban. This includes plastic items with composting
certifications. Biodegradable or compostable plastic items can still harm wildlife the same way
conventional plastic items do, if they are littered. Such plastics require extended periods of time
or processing at a specialised composting facility in order to break down.
The use of reusable containers is legal and an easy, affordable and sustainable solution
businesses can adopt to manage the single-use plastic ban. Consumers can BYO straws
especially for items such as bubble tea or smoothies and businesses can encourage the use of
portable cutlery sets.
For more information: www.vic.gov.au/single-use-plastics
