Some exemptions apply for the single-use plastic items banned.
Single-use plastic straws: Businesses can supply single-use plastic straws to individuals with a medical or health need. No reason or proof of need is required, however straws cannot be displayed. Healthcare entities providing care or products to people with a disability or healthcare need may display and supply single-use plastic straws. Examples of healthcare entities include hospitals, aged care or disability facilities or pharmacies.
Single-use plastic bowls: Single-use plastic bowls designed or intended to have a spill-proof lid are exempt. Plastic bowls may be supplied for scientific, forensic or medical purposes, which alternative products would compromise. Paper or cardboard bowls with a plastic lining or coating (e.g. novelty items) are exempt until 31 October 2024.
Single-use plastic plates: Paper or cardboard plates with a plastic lining or coating (e.g. novelty items) are exempt until 31 October 2024.
Cotton buds with plastic sticks: These may be supplied for scientific, forensic or medical purposes which would be compromised by the use of alternative products.
Integrated packaging items: Banned single-use plastic items which are part of pre-packaging as part of a product are exempt. Examples include a plastic straw attached to the side of a juice box or a plastic spoon packaged with a yogurt tub.
Detainee or mental health settings: Banned single-use plastic cutlery can still be supplied in certain detainee or mental health patient settings for safety reasons.
Domestic use: Single-use plastic items purchased before the ban can still be used in a domestic setting. Examples include a family picnic or in school lunchboxes.
Heavyweight and boutique plastic bags: The ban does not apply to:
- plastic bags without handles
- produce or barrier bags (such as those used for fruit, vegetables, meat)
- other forms of bags or pouches (such as waste bags, nappy bags, post satchels, bread bags)
- nylon, polyester or woven polypropylene shopping bags
- non-woven polypropylene bag with a minimum weight of 90g/m² with sewn seams.
