The Food Act 1984Opens in new tab requires all businesses that handle, prepare, package, store, serve, supply and repackage food and beverages to be registered with their local council. Food is defined as any substance for human consumption and includes drinks such as coffee, tea and alcohol.
As well as getting the necessary building and planning permits, you need to register your business with us. There are standards that food premises fit-outs must meet for us to grant registration.
New food premises assessment
To start the process of registering a business, you need to complete and submit a New food premises assessment form (PDF 265 KB).
The City of Melbourne strongly recommends that floor plans be submitted for assessment to ensure that any proposed works comply with the requirements of the Food Standards Code. We provide this service to help businesses meet their legislative obligations when fitting out food premises and to ensure that any additional works or changes are avoided post-construction, which is often a more costly and time-consuming exercise and may delay granting of Food Act registration.
A helpful guide to designing and constructing a food business is available to download: Food premises design and construction guidelines (PDF 1.3 MB).
When submitting plans, they should:
- be drawn to scale of not less than 1:100
- show the layout of all fixtures, fittings and equipment
- provide a description of materials to be used for surface finishes including walls, floors and bench tops
- show the locations of waste disposal area, bin wash area, storage areas and toilets
One of our environmental health officers will inspect the premises to check the fixtures and fittings are suitable for a food business.
This usually takes 15 working days to complete. However, there is a five working day fast-track service available for a fee. We will advise you in writing of any additional requirements or let you know that we’ve approved the assessment.
Food trucks
If you’re operating a food truck, you’ll need a food truck permit and to register as a temporary and mobile food premises.
Property enquiry
We advise arranging a property enquiry before purchasing an existing food and beverage business. A property enquiry will inform you of outstanding orders or structural requirements placed on the business before the purchase settlement.
Download property enquiry application form (PDF 293 KB).
During a property enquiry, an environmental health officer will assess the premises and write a report. This usually takes 15 working days to complete. A five working day fast-track service is also available for an extra fee. The current and proposed proprietors then decide who will action any outstanding items listed in the report.
Change of Ownership
If you decide to proceed with the business purchase, you will need to follow the change of ownership process. As of 1 July 2021, this replaces the Transfer of Food Act Registration due to a change in legislation.
To start the process of changing the business into your name, you need to complete the Change of Ownership application form (PDF 568 KB).
Cancellation of Registration
If you are the proprietor of an existing registered food business and wish to cancel your registration, please notify Community Wellbeing – Health via email at health@melbourne.vic.gov.au.
If you have any queries about purchasing an existing business contact City of Melbourne on 03 9658 9658.
Forms and guides
Food safety resources
Food safety programs
In Victoria, all class 1 and most class 2 food premises need a food safety program.
Food safety training, skills and knowledge
Everyone who works with food for sale is responsible for ensuring that the food is safe for people to eat.
Table Talk
Hospitality industry news and helpful hints and tips for food businesses.
