January 1 marks WA’s New Year’s resolution to bin the plastic bag
The National Retail Association (NRA) has today issued an urgent reminder to shoppers and retailers across Western Australia that January 1 marks the beginning to the state’s New Year’s resolution to bin the plastic bag.
From January 1, 2019 retailers throughout Western Australia will no longer be able to provide customers with lightweight plastic bags when shopping in their store.
NRA Manager of Industry Policy David Stout said that consumers across Western Australia need to be prepared for the change as they head to the shops for the first day of 2019.
“It’s vital that Western Australians are aware that in just a few days’ time they will no longer be provided with lightweight plastic bags when they go shopping,” Mr Stout said.
“The bag ban applies to all retailers operating in Western Australia regardless of size or type – ranging from newsagents to food outlets, to pharmacies and petrol stations.
“There are only four days to go before Western Australian permanently bins the lightweight plastic bag and shoppers need to make sure that they have alternative options in place – such as reusable bags – to safeguard against any inconvenience.
Mr Stout said that the NRA has partnered with the state government to assist the sector make a smooth transition ahead of the ban.
“The NRA has visited thousands of retailers in all parts of the state over the past few months to ensure that retailers are as ready as possible.
“Retailers who fail to comply with the new laws face substantial fines, not to mention severe disruptions to their business operations.
The NRA will continue to assist retailers with any teething issues after the ban comes into effect.
Want more information?
For more information on the WA Bag Ban, please see the Bag Ban WA website, call the NRA on 1800 817 723 or email bagbanwa@nra.net.au