WA Plastic Takeaway Container Exemption Ends 31 August 2026
Western Australian food businesses need to prepare for an important packaging change.
The temporary exemption allowing certain plastic takeaway containers for hot, soupy or liquid foods is scheduled to end on 31 August 2026. After this date, businesses serving foods such as soups, broths, curries and laksa will need to use compliant alternatives.
What does this mean for your business?
Cafés, restaurants, caterers, takeaway operators and commercial kitchens should review any plastic containers currently used for food served at or above 60°C.
Starting the transition early gives your business time to:
- Test alternative packaging with your menu
- Check lid fit and leak resistance
- Manage existing stock
- Train staff
- Avoid last-minute supply pressure
What should you look for in an alternative?
Suitable takeaway packaging needs to do more than meet regulatory requirements. It should also perform reliably during storage, service and delivery.
BioPak has tested compostable containers and lids for three key areas: shelf life, transport stability and heat resistance.
Shelf life
BioPak states that its certified compostable products have a minimum 12-month shelf life when stored correctly.
Packaging should be kept indoors, away from direct sunlight and below 35°C. Businesses should also avoid ordering more stock than they are likely to use.
Transport stability
Hot liquid food containers need secure lids and strong construction to help prevent leaks during takeaway and delivery.
Features such as strengthened bases, grip-lip lids and vent holes are designed to improve stability, reduce internal pressure and minimise spills.
Heat resistance
BioPak tested selected paper and pulp containers with hot laksa through transport, refrigeration and reheating.
The tested products showed no deformation, spills or leakage while holding and transporting liquid food above 60°C.
Businesses should still test packaging with their own dishes, as temperatures, serving sizes and delivery conditions can vary.
What alternatives are available?
Possible replacements include:
BioBoard paper bowls
Available in multiple sizes with paper or pulp lids. Selected ranges are certified industrially compostable to AS 4736.
BioBoard rectangular containers
Suitable for curries, noodles and saucy meals. Several sizes use the same lid, which can help simplify stock management. The PDF notes that compostability certification for the listed range was pending when prepared.
BioCane bowls and containers
Made from plant fibre with no added PFAS. The listed ranges include round, square and rectangular options, with certification shown as pending in the PDF.
Prepare now
Before the exemption ends, businesses should identify affected plastic containers, select suitable alternatives and test them with actual menu items.
Ward Packaging can help you review your current takeaway packaging and find suitable bowls, containers and lids for hot and liquid food applications.
Contact Ward Packaging to start preparing for the August 2026 change.
Key points
- The WA plastic takeaway container exemption ends on 31 August 2026.
- The change affects certain containers used for hot, soupy or liquid foods.
- Businesses should begin testing alternatives before the deadline.
- Packaging should be checked for heat resistance, lid security and leak prevention.
- Paper and plant-fibre options are available in a range of shapes and sizes.
- Certification status should be confirmed before making compliance or compostability claims.