Food Act state licensing + food safety supervisor
Food businesses must register + appoint Food Safety Supervisor under state Food Acts.
Commonwealth and state law together
The Food Standards Code is developed nationally by FSANZ, but food business licensing, food safety supervisors and enforcement sit under each state and territory's Food Act. Check the rules in each state or territory where you operate.
Who must comply
Food businesses (manufacturing, retail, food service).
What triggers it
Food business commencement.
When due
Annual registration + FSS appointment + 5-yearly refresher.
Evidence required
Council registration + FSS certificate + food safety program.
Max penalty
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Who must comply with this? The applicability test by industry, business structure and size.
Summary
Each state Food Act incorporates Food Standards Code + requires registration with local council + Food Safety Supervisor (FSS) for higher-risk classes. Annual fees + inspection regime.
Enforced by
Topics
Related
- CWLTHAppoint a certified Food Safety Supervisor (FSS)Food businesses serving ready-to-eat food must have a trained FSS reasonably available.
- CWLTHComply with Plain English Allergen Labelling (PEAL)From 25 February 2026, allergen labelling must use plain English and a standardised format.
- CWLTHImplement Food Safety Management Tool (Standard 3.2.2A)Category 1 food businesses must use a Food Safety Management Tool to verify critical controls.
- CWLTHImplement Food Safety Program where prescribed (Standard 3.2.1)High-risk food businesses must implement a documented Food Safety Program audited by a recognised food safety auditor.
Frequently asked questions
- Who must comply with Food Act state licensing + food safety supervisor?
- Food businesses (manufacturing, retail, food service).
- What triggers Food Act state licensing + food safety supervisor?
- Food business commencement.
- When is Food Act state licensing + food safety supervisor due?
- Annual registration + FSS appointment + 5-yearly refresher.
- What evidence is required for Food Act state licensing + food safety supervisor?
- Council registration + FSS certificate + food safety program.
Source: https://foodstandards.gov.au. Rules Mate is not a law firm. Always verify against the live regulator source before acting.