WA Plastic Ban 2026 — What Packaging Can Perth Cafes Still Use?
, by Value Pack Perth, 2 min reading time
Western Australia's plastic ban has changed the game for cafes, restaurants, and takeaway shops. If you're not sure what you can and can't use anymore, here's a clear breakdown — plus the compliant alternatives that won't break the bank.
What's Banned in WA?
As of 2024-2025, WA has banned or is phasing out:
- Single-use plastic plates, bowls, and cups
- Plastic cutlery (forks, knives, spoons, stirrers)
- Plastic straws (except on request for medical needs)
- Expanded polystyrene (EPS/Styrofoam) food containers
- Plastic-lined single-use coffee cups (being phased)
What Can You Still Use?
The good news: there are affordable, compliant alternatives for everything.
Coffee Cups — PLA-Lined Paper Cups ✅
Standard paper coffee cups with PLA (plant-based) lining are fully compliant. PLA is derived from corn starch — it's not a traditional plastic. We stock single wall and double wall cups from 8oz to 16oz, starting at $66 per 1,000.
Takeaway Containers — Paper & Sugarcane ✅
Replace your plastic containers with:
- Paper takeaway containers — lined for hot and cold, microwave safe, 500ml to 1000ml
- Sugarcane clam shells and containers — fully compostable, made from natural bagasse fibre
Both options are grease-resistant, sturdy enough for delivery, and work with platforms like UberEats and DoorDash.
Cutlery — Wooden Forks, Knives & Spoons ✅
Wooden cutlery is the go-to replacement for plastic. Made from sustainably sourced birch wood, our wooden forks, knives, and spoons are fully compostable and biodegradable. Available in bulk packs of 2,000+.
Straws — Paper Straws ✅
We stock paper straws in various colours and sizes. They're compostable and work well for smoothies, iced coffee, and cold drinks. From $35 per 1,000.
Bags — Paper Bags ✅
Paper bags with handles are the compliant replacement for plastic bags. Available in jumbo, regular, and small sizes for takeaway and delivery.
How Much More Does Compliant Packaging Cost?
Here's the thing most people don't realise: compliant packaging doesn't have to cost more. Our paper cups are the same price as the plastic-lined ones most businesses were already buying. Sugarcane containers are slightly more than the cheapest plastic options, but the difference is cents per unit.
And with our 5% price beat guarantee, we make sure you're getting the best deal in Perth on all compliant packaging.
Make the Switch
Browse our full range of WA-compliant packaging at valuepackperth.com.au. Free Perth metro delivery on orders over $200, dispatched next weekday. Call 0407 995 291 or email sales@valuepackperth.com.au.