South Australia to ban single-use plastics from 2021

South Australia will become the first state in Australia ban single-use plastics, with laws to come into effect next year.

From March 1, the sale, supply and distribution of single-use straws, plastic cutlery and drink stirrers will be outlawed in the state.

"We did that because we felt that it was the right thing to do by the environment, but also the South Australian people were on board with that, they were pushing for that," SA Minister for Environment and Water David Speirs said.

READ MORE: South Australia passes laws banning single-use plastic

"Single-use plastic products are designed to be used a limited number of times, often away from home, and thrown away, usually resulting in litter, waste and harm to wildlife, including marine life."

Mr Speirs said businesses have been given fair warning and should start planning now by deleting single-use plastics from inventories, using up existing stocks, ordering alternatives, having signage in place and training staff.

Any businesses that fail to comply after the March deadline could be stung with a $20,000 fine, however some – including charities – will be exempt.

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More single use plastics will be added to the banned list in 2022 including polystyrene cups and bowls and plates.

However, SA Premier Steven Marshall said certain products will remain available for medical purposes.

"There will still be a group of people who will need straws and we're more than happy to support that," Mr Marshall said.