Food Act — Food Safety Glossary

The state or territory law that adopts the Food Standards Code and gives food safety requirements legal force.

Frequently asked questions

Is there one national Food Act?

No. Each Australian state and territory has its own Food Act, though they all adopt the same national Food Standards Code.

What does a Food Act do?

It adopts the Food Standards Code, creates food safety offences, and gives authorised officers powers to inspect businesses and enforce compliance.

How does the Food Act relate to the Food Standards Code?

The Code sets the technical requirements, and the Food Act makes those requirements legally enforceable within a state or territory.

Does the Food Act require me to register my business?

Most Food Acts require food businesses to notify or register with their local council or health authority before trading; the process varies by jurisdiction.

Who enforces the Food Act?

State and territory health departments and local councils enforce the Food Act, typically through environmental health officers and authorised officers.

Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) Environmental Health Officer (EHO) Authorised officer Food business notification Food safety glossary Food safety guides
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