From November 2019, The Victorian Government is implementing a state-wide ban on all lightweight plastic shopping bags with a thickness below 36 microns. The ban includes degradable, biodegradable and compostable bags. 

The ban is part of the State Government’s broader goals toward reducing single-used, unnecessary and problematic plastics.

This new legislation applies to ALL retailers - including supermarkets, greengrocers, bakeries, pharmacies, clothes stores, restaurants, cafes, markets, food outlets and many more.

The ban does not include:

• Produce bags used for unpackaged foodstuffs
• Garbage bags & bin-liners
• Dog waste or nappy bags
• Essential product packaging (e.g. bread bag)

Retailers should remove all existing stock and cease providing banned bags to customers, whether new or reused.

The Government has engaged the National Retailers Association (NRA) to assist retailers’ in transitioning away from lightweight plastic bags. Businesses can contact  NRA on the toll-free Bag Ban Hotline on 1800 817 723.

For resources and further information visit vicbagban.com.au