The ACT Government has released the discussion paper: ‘A circular future for the ACT: problematic products and single-use plastic reduction’. Consultation on this paper is now open, seeking input from local industry, businesses and the community to guide the next stage of plastic reduction in the Territory.
The ACT has progressively reduced problematic single-use plastics since 2021 under the Circular Economy Act 2023, including items such as plastic bags, cutlery, straws and plates. Previous action has been informed by extensive engagement and supported by strong business compliance.
Minister for Climate Change, Environment, Energy and Water, Suzanne Orr, said the consultation will focus on understanding how we can phase out single-use plastics and transition to more circular, sustainable alternatives. A sensible, evidence‑based approach that supports local businesses will be taken as we continue the Territory’s commitment to plastic reduction.
“Canberrans care deeply about our environment, from our bush capital reserves to our lakes and waterways. Cutting avoidable single‑use plastics is one of the simplest, most effective things we can do together to reduce litter, protect wildlife and move towards a circular economy,” Minister Orr said.
“We want to hear from businesses and the community about what is practical and how Government can best support change – whether that is clear timelines, education, or enabling reuse systems – so we can work towards making reusables the norm across the ACT.”
There are 14 single-use plastic items identified for discussion during the community engagement period.
- Barrier/produce bags
- Flower bags
- Produce stickers
- Coffee cups + lids + plugs
- Cold cups
- Bowls with lids
- Sauce containers + sachets
- Soy sauce fish
- Cigarette filters
- Bread bag tags
- Food sticks (lollipops etc.)
- Pizza savers
- Prepackaged goods with integrated single-use items
- Plastic confetti.
“These items have been identified due to their ability to be replaced by reusable and sustainable alternatives, and due to their negative environmental impact, including contamination of recycling streams, non-recyclability in kerbside bins, contribution to litter, and harm to wildlife,” said Minister Orr.
Community consultation is open now until Monday 27 April 2026. To read the discussion paper and have your say, visit The ACT Government’s YourSay Conversations Website: https://yoursayconversations.act.gov.au/plastics-next-steps
