The Andrews Labor Government is getting on with phasing out harmful single-use plastics – cutting waste and protecting the state’s natural environment.
Phasing out single-use plastic throughout Victoria will dramatically reduce plastic pollution from February 2023.
Reducing plastic pollution is part of the Labor Government’s $515 million investment transforming Victoria’s waste and recycling system, delivering a sustainable and thriving circular economy while creating thousands of new recycling and manufacturing jobs.
The Government is leading by example, having already begun phasing out single-use plastic in the public service.
Plastics in the environment break up into smaller and smaller pieces over time, becoming increasingly difficult to manage.
Banning single-use plastics from sale and supply across Victoria is a crucial step in safeguarding our waterways, lakes and oceans — contributing to litter and posing a significant hazard to our marine life.
The ban includes single-use plastics straws, cutlery, plates, drink stirrers, expanded polystyrene food and drink containers and cotton bud sticks. Feedback on the ban will help shape the final regulations released later this year.
Victorians can help stop plastic pollution and start preparing for the ban by avoiding single-use plastic items where possible and choosing reusable alternatives instead.
Learn more and have your say at: engage.vic.gov.au/SUP-ban-regulations
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“We’re creating thousands of new recycling and manufacturing jobs and protecting the state’s plants, animals and habitats from single-use plastic, which makes up a third of Victoria’s litter.”
“We know Victorians want to reduce pollution and waste – which is why we are banning problematic single use plastics from February 2023 and we are looking to hear their views on how this ban will operate.”
“Plastic pollution is a significant environmental problem - the actions we take now will help ensure Victoria has a clean and bright future.”
Reviewed 14 April 2022