Plan for Plastics - Barrier bags ban factsheet & design standard

Guidance
This factsheet details the policy position of the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation for the design standard that will apply to prescribed plastic barrier bags in Western Australia (WA).
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The barrier bags ban design standard was developed through stakeholder consultation to support food organics recovery by allowing certified compostable produce bags to be reused as caddy liners in FOGO systems.

From 1 September 2024, the sale and supply of non‑compostable plastic produce bags (also known as barrier bags) for loose fruit and vegetables was banned.

From 1 October 2025, the sale and supply of non‑compostable plastic barrier bags that do not meet the required design standards used for loose fruit and vegetables or loose dry nuts and confectionery products is banned.

From 1 October 2026, the sale and supply of non‑compostable plastic barrier bags that do not meet the design standard used for loose/unpackaged meat, seafood and dairy products, is banned.

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