The Shire registers and inspects food businesses operating in the Shire. There are minimum standards by which these premises must operate in relation to food safety and maintenance.
All food premises are risk rated into four categories based on risk of food handling activities being carried out. Food premises are classified as:
This classification is important as it helps determine annual fees and inspection frequency.
Will I need Building or Planning approval?
Before you register your business, you will need to check if you need Planning approval. Additionally, if you are making any structural changes to your property or changing the classification of the building (e.g. from a residential to commercial), you may need Building approval.
If you would like to discuss the various requirements or approval that need to be aware when registering a food business within the Shire, you will need to speak with the Shire's Environmental Health Officer. To speak with a Building or Planning Officer, please contact the Shire and ask to speak with Development Services.
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What kinds of things do I need to consider when opening a food business?
Food Handling Skills & Knowledge
Please note, the following is not relevant to Food Safety Supervisors.
Persons conducting food handling operations must possess the skills and knowledge in food safety and hygiene matters required to handle the food safely. To assist food businesses in meeting these requirements, we have provided free access to the following training tools:
Food Safety Management Requirements
Please note, the following also applies to Food Safety Supervisors.
The newly developed and approved food safety Standard 3.2.2A came into effect as of 8 December 2023. This standard ensure food handlers have appropriate skills, knowledge and key food safety controls are adequately managed.
The tools introduced in Standard 3.2.2A will enable your business to manage food safety risks more effectively which will help prevent food-borne illnesses, outbreaks, loss of revenue and reputational damage to your business.
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Premises
Information about the suitability of premises (including mobile vans and trailers) compared to the requirements in the Food Standards Code can be found below. This has up to date information relating to the new food safety Standard 3.2.2A.
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Wastewater Disposal
Where reticulated sewerage is available, the possible requirement for a grease arrestor and trade waste permit through Water Corporation (see their website below). Where reticulated sewerage is not available, the possible requirement for a grease arrestor and onsite effluent disposal approval through the Shire.
www.watercorporation.com.au
Water Supply
Where mains water supply is not available, the supply of potable water for drinking and hand washing. A filtration system may be required to meet microbiological standards.
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Labelling Requirements
Unless an exemption applies, specific information must be included on labels for food packages for retail sale or for catering purposes. An information sheet is available at the bottom of this page, along with all other related documents and forms.
How do I apply? What are the associated fees?
To register your food business, please complete a Food Act 2008 Notification/Registration Form - all related documents and forms are available at the bottom of this page.
What will it cost?
Genuine charitable and community groups are exempt from paying these fees, but must still notify/register.
Food Act Certificate -
Application Fee:
- Notification: $50.00
- Low Risk: $119.00
- Medium Risk: $230.00
- High Risk: $230.00
Annual Service Fee (pro rata applies):
- Notification: $0.00
- Low Risk: $119.00
- Medium Risk: $220.00
- High Risk: $358.00
What do I need to know for Liquor Control?
You will need to ensure you have submitted a Liquor Permit Application and an application for a Section 39 Certificate. You can find more information and access other relevant forms below.
About Liquor Licensing