A ban on free single-use plastic bags will be introduced in some states and select stores across Australia starting from June 2018. Customers will be required to either bring their own bags or purchase a reusable bag.
The SDA, the union for retail workers, is running a public campaign about what your rights are under the new changes and to remind customers that abusive or violent behaviour about the ban will not be tolerated.
The SDA continues to consult with employers to make sure they are supporting their staff through this change to ensure workers:
Understand the new bag rules.
Are supported when reporting issues related to abusive or violent behaviour from customers about the change.
Are given training on handling new bags and their rights for handling dirty or unhygienic reusable bags.
This is a major change for many retail workers, here’s what you need to know.
When will single use plastic bags be banned?
From 20 June 2018
All Woolworths stores ban single use plastic bags Australia-wide. This includes phasing them out in Woolworths Limited stores such as Big W.
From 1 July 2018
Queensland Government ban single use plastic bags across the state.
Western Australian Government ban single use plastic bags across the state.
All Coles stores ban single use plastic bags Australia-wide.
It’s important to always follow safe work practices.
Don’t overload bags or lift heavy bags if it is unsafe to do so.
If a customer wants more in the bag, they can pack the extra items themselves or lift their own bag into the trolley.
You have the right to refuse to handle a reusable bag if it is extremely dirty and unhygienic.
Packing a reusable bag shouldn’t be a health risk to you.
You should not have to tolerate any abusive or violent customer behaviour about changes to the bag rules.
You have the right to a safe work environment and customers should not take out their frustrations about paying for a reusable bag on staff. Report any incidents of customer abuse or violence to your supervisor.
Abuse shouldn’t be in a day’s work. SDA members stand up for safer workplaces because No One Deserves A Serve.
Union workplaces are safer workplaces. Not an SDA member?
