Food Business Registration
Under the Victorian Food Act 1984, all businesses that sell food or drink to the public must be registered with their principal Council in which their business operates or is primarily located. For mobile food vehicles, this is where the vehicle is garaged.
This also applies to food businesses that are new or are being transferred to new ownership. As of 1 July 2021, business transfers are no longer recognised. If you are purchasing an existing business, you will need to apply for a new registration. This includes existing businesses that are moving to a different premises.
The process is as follows for all businesses:
- Complete and submit an Application to Register a Food Premises and provide all requested documentation.
- An Environmental Health Officer will contact you to request further information and organise an inspection(s).
- Once the officer is satisfied that all of the Food Act requirements have been met, an invoice* will be issued.
- Once paid, a certificate of registration is issued and trade may commence.
- For mobile and temporary food businesses, registration on the FoodTrader website is also required prior to trading. This is free with your Council registration.
*Fees apply for Class 1, 2, 3A, and 3 food businesses and community groups.
Food Activity Classification
All food businesses will fall under one of the classes: 1, 2, 3A, 3, or 4. The business classification page outlines the differences between them
For community groups, visit the community groups page for more information.
Annual renewal of registration
Once you have been registered, you will be required to renew your registration each calendar year (1 January to 31 December). You will be issued two items: A request to update your contact and business details if applicable, and your renewal fee for the following year. The fee must be paid prior to the expiration of your current registration. You may pay online, in-person or over the phone. Ensure that you have your debtor number (present at the top of the invoice) to be able to pay in-person or over the phone.
You may submit the renewal form online, or in person. You may also use this form to update your contact and business details throughout the year.
Sale and/or purchase of an existing food business
In the case of a purchase of an existing food business, the outgoing proprietor must submit to Council in writing of their intention of closure and the settlement date.
The incoming proprietor must follow the steps above as per new businesses.
Temporary and mobile food premises
Temporary and mobile food premises are held to the same food safety standards as fixed food premises.
A guide developed by the Barwon-South Western Region called the 'Temporary Food Premises Guidelines(PDF, 2MB)' provides in depth guidance on the Food Act and Food Standards Codes requirements, specifically for temporary and mobile food premises.
Registration on the FoodTrader website is also required prior to trading. This is free with your Council registration.
Still unsure of what you need for an Environmental Health permit?
Please contact us via email at environmentalhealth@hrcc.vic.gov.au or by phone on 5382 9777 for further information.
Unsure of what else you need other than registration permits from Environmental Health?
We're here to help. The Horsham Rural City Council Economic Development team is available to you through the process to obtain the right permits and provide insight on what grants may be available for your business.
Visit their page for more information on starting, expanding or buying a business.