NDS is calling for feedback from WA members and the WA broader disability sector to help inform the WA Government's proposal to phase out single-use plastic straws. Though a well-intentioned move to combat the environmental impacts of waste, the consequences of the proposal would be far-reaching within the disability sector, leaving many people with disability unable to consume drinks safely and easily.

Following the introduction of the Plan for Plastics, a roadmap to eliminating single-use plastics in Western Australia, the WA Government has formed the Plastic Straws Working Group. Made up of representatives from government, peak bodies and key stakeholders and including WA State Manager Julie Waylen, the group will discuss plastic straw needs across the disability, aged care and health sectors. Representatives will ensure these sectors are central to any consideration surrounding the potential phase out of plastic straws.

Working group feedback will inform approaches to public consultation and development of provisions to ensure the availability of plastic straws continues for people who require them to maintain their quality of life.

NDS invites you to respond to the following two questions to feedback on the potential impacts on the disability sector. If you wish to participate in the survey, please email your responses to submit enquiry/feedback, NDIS Implementation, Analysis and Support Manager by Friday, 12 March 2021.

Question 1

How will a phase-out of plastic straws impact people with disability and/or the disability sector? 
Please discuss any concerns, barriers and/or opportunities to adapt to a phase-out while considering the needs of those requiring ongoing access.

You should consider the following:

• Implementation costs / efficiency issues
• Accessibility and inclusive issues for people with disability
• Health issues
• Safety issues
• Workforce training and reskilling needs

Response:

Question 2

If a state-wide phase-out of plastic straws was introduced, what would be the most suitable places to purchase or have plastic straws provided to allow ongoing access in the places and facilities they are currently used?

Response:

Any further comments: