Plastic Bags

North Queensland retailers are being urged to “bag” some information on their responsibilities under Queensland’s looming state-wide ban on light-weight plastic shopping bags, due to come into effect from July next year.

The NRA will be in Townsville, Kirwan, Ingham and Ayr from October 10 to 12 conducting free workshops aimed at helping retailers prepare for the impending plastic bag ban.

NRA Manager of Industry Policy David Stout said that it is vital that retailers are up to speed with their responsibilities ahead July 1 2018 when the ban comes into place.

“The NRA has teamed up with the Queensland Government to help retailers navigate the new compliance issues, find alternative bag solutions, and manage consumer sentiment to minimise negative impacts on their businesses,” Mr Stout said.

“Retailers who do not comply with the new laws from July 1 2018 are exposed to substantial fines and risk disrupting their business and upsetting customers.

“That is why we will be visiting locations throughout Townsville, Kirwan, Ingham and Ayr to inform retailers on how the ban will affect them and what they can do to minimise any inconvenience to their business and customers.

“Throughout the rest of this year, the NRA will be visiting over 90 locations across Queensland to conduct information workshops and provide advice to retailers. We’ll also be providing useful resources, training kits and tools to assist retailers in preparing for and managing the ban,” Mr Stout said.

The NRA will be running workshops at the below locations next week:

  • Townsville – 10 Oct 2017 – Castletown Shoppingworld;
  • Kirwan – 11 Oct 2017 – Sunland Plaza;
  • Kirwan – 11 Oct 2017 – Willows Shoppingtown;
  • Townsville – 12 Oct 2017 – Fairfield Central;
  • Townsville – 12 Oct 2017 – Annandale Central;
  • Townsville – 12 Oct 2017 – Airport;
  • Ingham community meeting – 10 Oct 2017;
  • Ayr – 12 Oct 2017.

The information portal, www.qldbagban.com.au, also has a range of resources for retailers, including:

  • An in-depth overview of the ban;
  • A comprehensive list of steps for retailers to take to transition to the new arrangements;
  • Details of information workshops across the state; and
  • Resources for retail workers to use in dealing with customers.

For more information, business owners should visit www.qldbagban.com.au, email qldbagban@nra.net.au, or call the NRA’s hotline on 1800 RETAIL (1800 738 245) for free advice.