Department of Health

Food businesses

Food safety laws affect every Victorian’s health and safety. In Victoria, all food businesses must comply with the Food Act 1984 (the Act), which oversees food safety. The Act also requires food premises to comply with the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (the Code).

This section tells you how to:

  • keep all food safe
  • start a food business
  • understand food business classifications
  • comply with the Act and the Code
  • keep food safe during an emergency.
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    Changes to food business classifications and regulations

    Changes have been made to the Food Act 1984 by the Department of Health to the Victorian food premises classification system.

    Starting a food business

    In Victoria, all organisations selling food or drink must be registered or notified with a council, and ensure that the food they sell is safe.

    Food safety programs

    Food safety programs are written plans that show what a business does to ensure that the food it sells is safe for people to eat.

    Food safety training, skills and knowledge

    If you are a food business owner in Victoria, you are responsible for ensuring that the food you sell or serve is safe to eat.

    Food safety audits and assessments

    Class 1 and 2 food premises in Victoria must undergo regular auditing

    Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code

    The Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code outlines standards that ensure Australian businesses produce food that is safe to eat.

    Food safety, enforcement and penalties

    In Victoria, councils enforce food safety laws, using options ranging from advice and warnings, to temporary closure of the premises, to prosecution.

    Food labelling

    In Australia, food labels must carry essential information, so that consumers are informed of the nature and properties of foods before they buy them.

    Food – how to keep it safe

    Information on required food safety and handling requirements for businesses and community groups in Victoria.

    Egg safety

    Egg safety in Victoria includes the Eggs need TLC initiative, which raises awareness of the risks associated with Salmonella and eggs.

    Water supply safety for food preparation

    Information on what you need to do to ensure that private water supplies for drinking and food preparation are safe.

    Reviewed 14 February 2024

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    Contact details

    Food Safety Unit

    Phone 1300 364 352
    foodsafety@health.vic.gov.au
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