The last straw: Palaszczuk Government proposes sweeping plastics ban

New laws are set to be introduced, before the year ends, that will outlaw the distribution of plastic straws, drink stirrers, cutlery and plates under sweeping changes proposed by the Palaszczuk Government.

PLASTIC straws, drink stirrers, cutlery and plates are set to be banned across the state under sweeping changes proposed by the Palaszczuk Government to eradicate single use plastics.

The Courier-Mail can reveal the Government will put the proposal out to consultation today ahead of introducing laws before the end of the year to ban the supply of the plastic items.

The Government has committed to speaking with business and industry about the impact of the ban, as well as the aged care and disability sectors.

Plastic straws could be among the first single-use plastic items to be banned under the proposal. Picture: iSTOCK

Environment Minister Leeanne Enoch said it was time for Queenslanders to decide the future of single-use plastics in the state, pointing out that more than 75 per cent of rubbish on Australian beaches was made of plastic.

Teigan Nash and Shannon Vos join Sydney Volunteers for the Ocean event

“We are looking to limit and, where necessary, ban the supply of most single-use plastic products starting with straws, stirrers, plates, cutlery and cups,” she said.

“This consultation is very important because we want to make sure we hear everyone’s perspectives on single-use plastics.

“Importantly, we are committed to ensuring the needs of people with a disability and the aged care sector are taken into account.

“We want to hear from Queenslanders as we take this next step.”

Environment Minister Leeanne Enoch. Picture: Liam Kidston

Under the proposed changes, plastic straws, stirrers, cutlery and plates would not be sold at supermarkets or distributed at stores and restaurants.

It is likely the ban would come into effect in 2021, with consultation on the proposal to remain open until April 15.

Ms Enoch confirmed the Government would consider banning other single-use items in the future, including coffee cups, heavyweight plastic shopping bags and polystyrene containers.

“Plastic pollution in our environment affects every aspect of our lives – from the water we drink and the food we consume, to the plants, animals and outdoor places we all love and enjoy,” Ms Enoch said.

Single use coffee cups could be banned next.

Queensland Disability Advisory Council chair Sharon Boyce said many people with disabilities relied heavily on straws.

“This is a conversation our community welcomes – how those of us with high needs can find a practical solution to plastic straws,” she said.