Plastic single-use straws – exemptions guidance

From 1 November 2022, the supply of plastic single-use straws will be banned in NSW.

The Plastic Single-Use Straw Exemption 2022 (PDF 63KB) allows the continued supply of plastic single-use straws to individuals who require a plastic single-use straw due to a disability or other medical need, or individual or organisation acting on their behalf. This helps these people continue to live safe and dignified lives.

You cannot be fined for buying, asking for, or using a plastic single-use straw if you’re accessing them for your personal medical needs or for the medical needs of someone you are acting on behalf of. The ban only applies where the plastic single-use straw is supplied in the course of carrying on a business.

Find out how this legislative change may impact you on the NSW EPS website here.