Why do you need to register your business?
In Victoria, you need to register the following with your local council:
- any business (home or commercial) that sells food or drink
- any premises where food is prepared for sale (or provided as part of a service).
We check that your business aligns with the Food Act 1984 and Food Safety Standards to ensure that the food you sell is safe to eat.
Starting a food business?
Visit the Department of Health website for practical information on Starting a Food Business.
What is a food business?
Any home based or commercial business that includes these services is considered a food business:
- cafes
- restaurants
- home business kitchens
- mobile food vehicles
- catering
- food stalls
- grocers
- supermarkets
- child care centres
- aged care facilities
- any businesses that offers or distributes food for sale
What risk rating is my business activity?
Your food business will be classified according to its food safety risk and food handling activities occurring at the premises.
There are five classes: 1, 2, 3A, 3 and 4. Classes 1, 2, 3A and 3 must register and Class 4 must notify your local council.
For more information on your risk rating visit the Victorian Department of Health.
How much does it cost?
How to register
- If you are considering starting a Class 1, 2, 3A and 3 food business (including a home based food business), discuss your ideas with our Statutory planning team who can help you with the requirements outlined in the Manningham Planning Scheme.
- Download and read the following fact sheets:
For a home based food business:
For a commercial food business: - Download and complete the supporting documentation to upload with your application:
- Select 'Apply now' below to start the pre-approval process:
Apply now
How to notify
- If you are a Class 4 business retailing pre-packaged, low-risk foods, and have certain other low-risk or occasional activities, you can complete this notification form.
- Send your completed form to foodsafety@manningham.vic.gov.au
Purchasing an existing business?
- Before you purchase a food business, we recommend you book a pre-sale inspection.
At the inspection, we check the premises meets the necessary standards and regulations so you can negotiate any outstanding items before settlement. You then need to register before you take over and operate the food business.
- Select 'Apply now' below to start the pre-approval process:
Apply now