Western Australia has ramped up its war on plastic waste, with a new ban on moulded expanded plastic packaging kicking in today.
The ban begins on the first day of Plastic Free July, as part of Stage 2 of the State Government’s plan for plastics.
It applies to all WA businesses, manufacturers, retailers and distributors.
Products with packaging made from expanded polystyrene or other moulded plastics that are cut to shape can no longer be sold or supplied in WA.
These materials are known for being difficult to recycle and easily blown into the environment, where they pose a danger to wildlife.
State Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn said the ban would help protect nature and push businesses to find better solutions.
“Foamed plastics like EPS break into tiny pieces that are harmful to wildlife and difficult to clean up. By removing them from circulation, we’re protecting our natural spaces and encouraging smarter, more sustainable packaging choices,” he said.
“I commend the manufacturers, distributors, and retailers who have worked hard to find better solutions and make this transition a success.
The ban follows a 28-month transition period, during which businesses were supported to trial alternative packaging.
Some exemptions will still apply, including for medical needs, fresh food delivery and fragile products where no safe replacement is available.
The change also aligns with a national roadmap to phase out expanded polystyrene, but goes further by targeting other problematic plastics.
The National Retail Association and WA Government have worked together to help businesses understand and prepare for the new rules, offering guides and resources.
Plastic Free July began in WA in 2011 and has grown into a global movement. Last year, an estimated 174 million people joined the challenge, avoiding about 390 million kilograms of plastic waste.
Minister Swinbourn said the campaign was a reminder that small actions could have a big impact.
“Plastic Free July inspires people around the world to take practical and meaningful actions to cut down on plastic waste, and this new ban shows WA is serious about doing our bit to cut plastic pollution,” he said.
