South Australia is the first to ban single-use plastics

Not only is the state a leader in renewable energy, it’s also the first jurisdiction in the country to ban all single-use plastic items. From 1 March 2021 all single-use plastic straws, cutlery and plastic stirrers will be banned across South Australia. Drinking straws will still be allowed to be given to people with a disability or “medical requirement”. Other single use plastic items will be banned in a second stage next year, while other items like takeaway coffee cups need “further analysis and consultation”.

There’s even fines for those that break the new laws – with maximum penalties of up to $20,000.