The National Retail Association (NRA) has issued an urgent reminder to shoppers and retailers across Western Australia that the new year marked the beginning of the state’s resolution to bin the plastic bag.

From January 1, 2019, retailers throughout Western Australia are no longer be able to provide customers with lightweight plastic bags when shopping in their store.

NRA Industry Policy manager David Stout said consumers across Western Australia need to be prepared for the change as they head to the shops in 2019.

“It’s vital West Australians are aware they will no longer be provided with lightweight plastic bags when they go shopping,” Mr Stout said.

“The bag ban applies to all retailers operating in Western Australia regardless of size or type – ranging from newsagents to food outlets, to pharmacies and petrol stations.

“Now Western Australia has permanently binned the lightweight plastic bag, shoppers need to make sure they have alternative options in place – such as reusable bags – to safeguard against any inconvenience.

Mr Stout said that the NRA has partnered with the State Government to assist the sector to make a smooth transition ahead of the ban.

“The NRA has visited thousands of retailers in all parts of the state during the past few months to ensure that retailers are as ready as possible,” he said.

“Retailers who fail to comply with the new laws face substantial fines, not to mention severe disruptions to their business operations.”

The NRA will continue to assist retailers with any teething issues after the ban comes into effect.