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Paper bag blues: How Australia’s plastic ban creates new problems for shoppers

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Paper bag blues: How Australia’s plastic ban creates new problems for shoppers

compressed-mathias-reding-Gg2TPu3SFAc-unsplash.jpeg Paper bag blues: How Australia’s plastic ban creates new problems for shoppers
The nature of single-use bag regulations creates ongoing challenges for Australian shoppers, with 25-cent paper alternatives proving frustratingly fragile. Image source: Mathias Reding / Unsplash.

Senator Pauline Hanson has ignited a fierce debate about Australia's plastic bag ban after posting a popular video showing her 25-cent paper bag from Woolworths splitting open in the car park.



The One Nation leader's frustration resonated with thousands of Australians who've experienced similar mishaps since single-use plastic bags were banned nationwide in June 2022.





'Enough is enough,' Hanson declared in her video, which attracted over 14,000 comments within days. Her call to 'bring back plastic bags' has reignited discussions about whether Australia's environmental policies have gone too far in inconveniencing everyday shoppers, particularly seniors and those with mobility issues.



The senator's experience isn't unique. Across the country, shoppers report similar frustrations with paper bags that tear when wet, split under minimal weight, or simply fall apart during the journey from checkout to car.



At 25 cents each, these supposedly eco-friendly alternatives are becoming an expensive source of irritation for many Australians.



The Great Bag Debate: Public Opinion Divided



Hanson's video struck a nerve, generating passionate responses from both sides of the environmental divide. Supporters flooded social media with their own bag horror stories, while environmental advocates defended the plastic ban as necessary for protecting Australia's unique ecosystems.




'I'm sick to death of these paper bags breaking. Last week I lost a whole shop worth of groceries in the car park. Bring back plastic!'

Facebook commenter on Hanson's post



However, not everyone agreed with the senator's stance. Many commenters pointed out that reusable bags offer a simple solution, with some questioning why shoppers continue buying disposable options at all. 'I've been using the same canvas bags for five years,' one user noted. 'Problem solved.'



Understanding Australia's Plastic Bag Ban



Australia's journey to eliminate single-use plastic bags began with South Australia in 2009, followed by other states and territories over the next decade. The nationwide ban, implemented in June 2022, marked the culmination of years of environmental campaigning and legislative action.










Key Facts About Australia's Bag Ban



  • Single-use plastic bags banned nationwide since June 2022

  • Australians previously used 3.92 billion plastic bags annually

  • Paper bags cost 25 cents at major supermarkets

  • Reusable plastic bags available from 15 cents

  • Some states have additional restrictions on barrier bags




The ban covers lightweight plastic bags under 35 microns thick, typically given away free at checkouts. However, thicker reusable plastic bags remain available for purchase, along with paper alternatives and various fabric options.



The Paper Bag Problem: More Than Just Inconvenience



While paper bags are marketed as an eco-friendly alternative, they come with their own set of challenges. Consumer testing reveals that standard supermarket paper bags can only reliably hold between 3-6 kilograms when dry, significantly less when exposed to moisture.




Common Paper Bag Failures


Bottom seams splitting under weight


Handles tearing away from the bag body


Bags disintegrating when wet


Sides ripping from sharp packaging edges




For seniors and people with disabilities, these failures can be more than inconvenient—they can be dangerous. Groceries spilling in car parks create trip hazards, while the need to double-bag items increases costs for those on fixed incomes.









The Hidden Costs: Financial Impact on Shoppers



At 25 cents per bag, the costs quickly add up. A typical weekly shop requiring 6-8 bags costs an additional $1.50 to $2.00. For families doing multiple shops per week, this seemingly small charge can amount to over $100 annually.





Example Scenario


  1. Mary, a pensioner from Brisbane, estimates she spends $3-4 weekly on bags because paper bags often break, requiring doubles

  2. The Thompson family of five calculates their annual bag costs at $156, up from zero before the ban





Many shoppers report needing to 'double bag' heavier items in paper bags, effectively doubling the cost. Some have resorted to keeping cardboard boxes in their cars or purchasing heavy-duty reusable bags that can cost $2-3 each.




Source: Sky News Australia / Youtube.



Environmental Impact: Are Paper Bags Really Better?



The environmental equation isn't as simple as 'paper good, plastic bad.' Manufacturing paper bags requires significant water and energy resources, and they generate more greenhouse gas emissions during production than plastic bags.









Did you know?


Did you know?
A paper bag must be reused at least 3 times to have a lower environmental impact than a single-use plastic bag, according to environmental studies. However, their tendency to break often prevents this level of reuse.



Environmental scientists point out that the best option remains reusable bags made from durable materials like canvas, jute, or recycled plastics. These need to be used 100+ times to offset their production impact, but quality bags can last for years.



Supermarket Responses and Alternatives



Major supermarkets have acknowledged customer concerns about bag quality. Woolworths stated they continuously review their bag options and encourage customers to bring reusable bags. They offer various alternatives including:





  • Paper bags at 25 cents
  • Reusable plastic bags from 15 cents
  • Chiller bags for cold items
  • Foldable bags that fit in handbags
  • Heavy-duty canvas bags



Coles has similarly expanded its range, introducing reinforced paper bags in some stores and promoting their 'Swap-a-Box' program where customers can use cardboard boxes for free. Some smaller chains have experimented with compostable bags, though these often cost more.









International Comparisons: How Other Countries Handle the Transition



Australia isn't alone in grappling with plastic bag alternatives. Countries worldwide have implemented various solutions with mixed results:




Global Bag Solutions


UK: Charges 10p for all bags, significantly reducing usage


Germany: Robust reusable bag culture, minimal disposables


Japan: Charges for all bags, strong bring-your-own culture


USA: Varies by state, some reverting to plastic




Several U.S. states that banned plastic bags have seen rollbacks due to consumer complaints and hygiene concerns during COVID-19. This has led to debates about whether Australia might follow suit.



Practical Solutions for Frustrated Shoppers



While the debate continues, shoppers need practical solutions for their weekly grocery runs. Here are strategies that many Australians have found helpful:










Smart Shopping Strategies



  • Keep a set of bags in your car boot permanently

  • Attach a small foldable bag to your keychain

  • Use insulated bags for cold items and regular shops

  • Request boxes at the service desk—often free

  • Consider a collapsible shopping trolley




For seniors specifically, lightweight wheeled trolleys can eliminate the bag problem entirely while reducing strain. Many models fold flat for car storage and can be taken directly to the kitchen.



The Political Dimension: Will Policies Change?



Hanson's viral video has reignited political discussions about the bag ban. While the federal government has shown no signs of reversing course, some state politicians have begun questioning whether modifications might be needed.




'We need to balance environmental protection with practical reality. If bags are breaking and creating safety hazards, we must reconsider our approach.'

State MP (requesting anonymity)



Consumer advocacy groups have called for quality standards for paid bags, arguing that if customers must pay, the bags should be fit for purpose. Some suggest subsidised reusable bags for pensioners and low-income families.









Recent Developments and Future Outlook



As of 2024, several states are expanding restrictions to include produce bags and other plastic packaging. Western Australia introduced new rules for barrier bags, while South Australia banned additional single-use plastic items in September 2024.



The ACCC's 2024-25 supermarket inquiry includes examination of bag charges and whether they represent fair value for consumers. Early submissions suggest strong consumer dissatisfaction with current options.



Did you know?


Looking ahead:
Industry insiders suggest supermarkets are testing new materials including reinforced paper, plant-based plastics, and hybrid solutions that balance durability with environmental impact.



The Verdict: Finding Balance in a Bag-Ban World



While Pauline Hanson's call to 'bring back plastic bags' resonates with frustrated shoppers, the environmental benefits of the ban remain significant. Marine life protection, reduced litter, and decreased petroleum use are tangible gains that shouldn't be dismissed lightly.



However, the current paper bag solution clearly isn't working for many Australians. The challenge lies in finding alternatives that balance environmental responsibility with practical usability and affordability.



What This Means For You


Whether you side with Senator Hanson or support the bag ban, one thing is clear: the transition away from single-use plastics requires better solutions than breaking paper bags. As consumers, our best response may be embracing truly reusable options while pushing retailers and policymakers to develop better alternatives.



What's your experience with the bag ban? Have you found solutions that work, or do you share Hanson's frustration? Join the conversation and share your tips for fellow shoppers navigating our plastic-free future. Because whether we're carrying groceries in paper, plastic, or canvas, we all deserve bags that make it home in one piece.




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I take my own bags. Have about 6. Cost $12. Last year's. Including fridge bag.
 
Buy the reusable ones. I did this a few years ago, the cooler bags too & use them. Buying your own works out cheaper long term & they last for years.
 
Back when plastic bags were introduced, it was to save the trees. Bags were free, probably paid for in the price of goods. I have a collection of solid plastic bags, which I keep in my reusable cloth bags in case I do not have enough cloth bags, however when I gave them to the checkout person,she told me she was not allowed to use them, and would get into trouble if the supervisor noticed!
 
From what I have seen about the brown paper bags, which I use also, they are fairly strong unless overloaded, if something is put into them that is damp or wet. It's pretty obvious that in these cases that the bag might (probably will) break. I reuse my paper bags all the time and in the end use them to put things in to throw away.
 
A lot of the older plastic bags years ago were re-usable. People either didn't realise it or were too lazy to save and re-use them. Drake Supermarkets had a reward system which encouraged people to re-use their bags. We were issued with cards which were stamped with the number of bags you re-used. When you used the required number you got $1.00 off your bill. In those days a $$$ were worth a lot more than it is now.
 
I did see Pauline on tv last night, rambling on about how terrible paper bags are. I love paper bags, and use them for all sorts of things. I also have hessian type Coles bags as well as some heavy duty plastic Woolworths ones. If Pauline doesn’t like paper, then surely she could afford to purchase a few permanent bags, but DONT start a campaign to bring back plastic.
 
I did see Pauline on tv last night, rambling on about how terrible paper bags are. I love paper bags, and use them for all sorts of things. I also have hessian type Coles bags as well as some heavy duty plastic Woolworths ones. If Pauline doesn’t like paper, then surely she could afford to purchase a few permanent bags, but DONT start a campaign to bring back plastic bags
 
I have had the "handles" on paper bags break even when they have very little in them
 
I have had the "handles" on paper bags break even when they have very little in them
I actually have had very few breakages, considering the bags are usually full. I still love them and wouldn’t go back to plastic, ever.
 
I have never used the paper bags and never intend to. Always take my own reusable bags and do nit understand why Pauline Hanson can't do the same. She us making alot of fuss abkut something she can sort for herself in my opinion. I have no problem if people want to use them, but suffer the consequences without complaints as there are far better options out there that will save you alot of money in the end.
 
You can scratch your arse, without making it bleed?
 
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I did see Pauline on tv last night, rambling on about how terrible paper bags are. I love paper bags, and use them for all sorts of things. I also have hessian type Coles bags as well as some heavy duty plastic Woolworths ones. If Pauline doesn’t like paper, then surely she could afford to purchase a few permanent bags, but DONT start a campaign to bring back plastic.
I love my paper bags I use them mainly to put my cats 🐈‍⬛ pooh and wees in there great. 😊
 
Paper bags are great. Obviously you don’t overload the bag and buy more than one.Most other countries have the plastic bag ban and you bring your own reusable bag when shopping.
 
DO YOU KNOW!!!!!!!!!!! Take your trolley to the car, empty into the boot, put trolley back, get into your car, and DRIVE off.
Sweet, no breakages, no swearing, cool calm and collected.😇
 
It’s more than inconvenient when you are on a disability pension and your paper bags tear, and you loose your shopping and don’t have the money to buy more shopping. But I would love to see some of the people in government that don’t want the plastic bags back. Doing the shopping and have those paper bags tear. And not have the money to be able afford to buy more shopping to replace what was already lost, thanks to the paper bags. It’s hard enough as it is trying to make ends meet.
 
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What a stupid argument! Just use fabric bags, they last forever. I have thick ones that I bought from the supermarkets years ago and some soft silk-like ones that fold up really small to keep in my handbag. Been using those for at least 10 years! What is wrong with people? Why do you want to use plastic carry bags that cut off the circulation in your hands!
 
"A paper bag must be reused at least 3 times to have a lower environmental impact than a single-use plastic bag, according to environmental studies. However, their tendency to break often prevents this level of reuse."
How can this be? Paper is 100% recyclable or compostable. The vast majority of plastic bags either go to landfill or to landscape pollution (aka litter). Plastic isn't biodegradable or compostable (no 'compostable' plastic bag that I've ever added to the compost bin has even degraded, one year later!). It breaks down to microplastics. It has builds plastic islands in the oceans.
True, paper is made out of plant material - usually woodchip. Trees. Trees can be planted to replace any that are removed (okay, too often they're not, but they can be!). Paper is a renewable resource. Plastic is a petrochemical construct. Petrol is a finite resource.
 
I have had the "handles" on paper bags break even when they have very little in them
It’s more than inconvenient when you are on a disability pension and your paper bags tear, and you loose your shopping and don’t have the money to buy more shopping. But I would love to see some of the people in government that don’t want the plastic bags back. Doing the shopping and have those paper bags tear. And not have the money to be able afford to buy more shopping to replace what was already lost, thanks to the paper bags. It’s hard enough as it is trying to make ends meet.
Ever heard of reusable cloth bags? That can be washed in the washing machine when they get dirty? Buy - or make your own - once and you've got a bag for some time to come.
 
I've said it before and I'll say it again, the paper bags of the 70's & 80's didn't have handles... remove the handles from the current bags and then you must carry them by the bottom... no handles to tear and less chance of the bag ripping
 

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