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What you need to do now: Food and Hospitality

Prepare Now

STEP 1: STOCKTAKE

Check your inventory of single-use plastic bowls and plates to ensure you will be ready for the change starting on September 1, 2023. If you use plastic stemmed cotton buds and/or plastic pizza savers, be aware that these will also be banned September 1, 2023.

  • Stop ordering single-use plastic bowls and plates now.
  • Stop ordering single-use plastic pizza savers now.
  • Stop ordering plastic stemmed cotton buds now.
  • Use up existing stock before September 1, 2023.

STEP 2: ORDER ALTERNATIVES

Order alternatives ASAP.

Visit ALTERNATIVE ITEMS for information about suppliers of alternative products.


STEP 3: EXCESS STOCK OPTIONS

Don’t stockpile unused products for a rainy day. 

Here are some options to avoid sending the single-use items to landfill:

RETURN: Contact your supplier for return options. These products may still be used interstate but items should be in the original, unopened packaging. 

RECYCLE: Enquire if excess stock can be recycled – this depends on the type of plastic and if it has a use. Contact these companies (fees may apply):

YCA Recycling, Wingfield, Adelaide
Phone: 1300 503 882
 ycarecycling.com

Recycling Plastics Australia, Kilburn, Adelaide
Phone: 8359 1111
rpau.com.au/contact


STEP 4: PREPARE FOR DISPOSAL

  • Correct disposal of compostable items may mean changing your waste management and recycling systems and practices so prepare now. 
  • In response to customer expectations, cafes and restaurants are increasingly introducing collection systems to recycle and avoid food waste – speak to your waste contractor for more information.

STEP 5: EDUCATE YOUR STAFF

  • Tell staff about the new legislation and how your business is going to avoid or replace the waste.
  • Train staff to communicate the change to your customers.

STEP 6: INFORM YOUR CUSTOMERS 

  • Display supplied Point of Sale materials available to download and print. 
  • Help your customers to transition by communicating the change early.
  • Tell customers with disability and health needs if you decide to keep single-use plastic straws for their use on request.
  • Encourage customers to BYO their own reusable straws where appropriate.