A local law designed to reduce plastic waste in the City of Fremantle has been blocked by the Legislative Council for the second time in three years.
The City of Fremantle Plastic Bag Local Law would prohibit retailers providing customers with single–use non–biodegradable plastic bags and was amended and resubmitted after a similar law was blocked in 2013.
In May 2015, Liberal MLC Hon Peter Katsambanis moved a disallowance motion against the amended submission, which was officially moved on the 13 October in state parliament.
City of Fremantle Mayor, Dr Brad Pettitt said the City is bitterly disappointed by the decision.
“We’re really disappointed that as a local government, we’ve been unsuccessful in progressing a proactive law that is not only within our jurisdiction under the Local Government Act 1995, but has been instigated by our local businesses and community members.
“It’s unfortunate the state government has blocked such a widely supported law that would have pioneered a sensible approach to waste reduction and environmental protection, especially after all the community consultation and amendments we’ve undertaken over the last three years.
“There are several other local government authorities, both in Western Australia and in other parts of the country that will also be disappointed and discouraged by this decision.”
Fremantle Council has stated it will now focus its efforts on continuing to provide education and support for the use of sustainable materials by local retailers and the community, in order to reduce the use of plastic bags and maintain its commitment to delivering sustainable outcomes as a One Planet Council.
