Single-use plastics make up a third of the litter in our environment and are difficult and costly to clean up. They pollute the environment, harming wildlife and contaminating our food and water. They are also a poor use of resources – they are often used for only a few minutes and generate significant waste that is not recyclable. They can often easily be replaced with reusable products.

Under new regulations, from 1 February 2023, Victorian businesses and organisations (including schools) will not be able to sell, supply or provide a number of single-use plastic items. The ban applies to the following single-use plastic items made from conventional, degradable or compostable plastics:

• Drinking straws
• Cutlery including knives, forks, spoons, chopsticks, splades, and  food picks.
• Plates
• Drink stirrers and sticks
• Cotton bud sticks

The ban also applies to:

• Food service items and drink containers made from expanded polystyrene. This includes expanded polystyrene plates, cups, bowls, clam shells and any cover or lid that is also made from expanded polystyrene.

Exceptions to the ban

People who need single-use plastic drinking straws due to a disability or for a medical need will still be able to purchase and use these items. If your student needs to continue using single-use plastic drinking straws because of a disability or medical need, please let us know and we will ensure that there is a supply available for your student’s use at future school activities.

The Victorian government has produced a usefulFact Sheet explaining which items are banned and which are not, including information about exemptions.