
If you are looking at taking over an existing food business or starting a new one up, you must contact the Public Health Unit to comply with requirements.
Before taking over an existing food business, it is advisable (but not compulsory) for you to arrange for a premise inspection to be conducted. This will ensure that you are aware of any outstanding orders or structural requirements placed on the business prior to settlement.
To arrange the inspection, you (or someone acting on your behalf eg. your solicitor) need to write or phone the Public Health Unit and request a 'Property Enquiry Request form' . This paperwork must be returned to us (includes the current proprietor's consent to disclose information form). The fee for this service is $170.00.
If you decide to go ahead with the business purchase, you will be required to submit a Food Safety Program, complete a Transfer of Registration application and pay a relevant fee.
In addition to receiving the necessary Building and Planning Permits, you need to submit two copies of scale plans to the Public Health Unit for approval prior to commencement of works.
The plans need to detail the entire premise, including outdoor areas, and describe all internal surfaces, including the position and surfaces of all fittings and fixtures.
For further details of fit out requirements, please read the Food Establishment Specifications and view the Food Safety Standards.
You will also need to prepare a Food Safety Program for your business and apply for registration prior to being allowed to open.
Further information
LinksWithin this site
Cleaning food premises
Sanitising food premises
Food safety program
Food establishment specifications
Food Safety Standards ![]()
External sites (Yarra City Council accepts no responsibility for the information or opinions contained within external sites)
Australia and New Zealand Food Authority