Two years ago, I announced that we would be pursuing this legislative reform and subsequently commenced consultation for feedback on introducing a ban. The response was overwhelmingly positive. We established a stakeholder taskforce and drafted a Bill that community and industry were all able to engage on. Working closely with our valued stakeholder groups from the outset to now has enabled a smooth transition period, which has secured strong support. 

I cannot state enough how important this reform is, not only for our environment, but also to further cement South Australia as the national leader in waste management and protecting our environment. From the establishment of the Container Deposit Legislation in 1977 to banning lightweight plastic shopping bags in 2008, we have always led the charge. And today we are once again setting the example.

I want to acknowledge the stakeholder taskforce and the team at Green Industries SA for all their hard work in shaping this legislation and working hard to enable this commencement date.

For further information, please visit www.replacethewaste.sa.gov.au.

Thank you for all you are doing to make South Australia more sustainable and supporting our circular economy as we lead Australia and the world!