Home-based food businesses licensing reminder

Published on 17 October 2018

Horsham Rural City Council is reminding home-based food business operators they must be registered under the Food Act 1984 and follow regulations to ensure that the food they sell is safe to eat.

HRCC Director Development Services Angela Murphy said only registered businesses were allowed to sell food to the public.

“In Victoria, all food businesses must be classified, according to the food safety risk of the business,” Ms Murphy said.

“A small number of businesses do not need to register. However, they are still required to notify Council of their intended food business activities.

“Depending on the class, there may also be a requirement for a food safety program and a food safety supervisor,” she said.

Ms Murphy said it was the responsibility of the business operator to determine and meet or obtain all the necessary permits and requirements.

The penalty for operating an unregistered food business is $19,342.80.

“People operating a business from their home must have their kitchen inspected to ensure it complies with the requirements of the Food Standards Code and Food Act,” Ms Murphy said.

“This also applies to people who sell food at markets or once off events, in these cases they may only require a Single Food Permit for those single events.

“Also community groups or individuals who are wanting to raise money for a certain cause or group should ensure that they are also registered to sell food,” she said.

Ms Murphy said Council was committed to supporting home food businesses to be successful.

“It is best if anyone is wanting to make and sell food then they should contact me to discuss their activity to ensure that they are adequately covered,” she said.

“HRCC has a dedicated Economic Development Team that provides small business support services to assist your business to establish and grow in the municipality.”

Media enquiries – Robert Somers, Media and Communications Officer 5382 9763, robert.somers@hrcc.vic.gov.au