Prohibition order — Food Safety Glossary

An order that stops all or part of a food business from operating until serious food safety problems are fixed.

Frequently asked questions

What triggers a prohibition order?

Serious risks to public health, such as severe pest infestation, no running water or unsafe conditions, or failure to comply with an earlier notice.

How is a prohibition order lifted?

The business must fix the problems and obtain a certificate of clearance from an authorised officer confirming it can safely reopen.

Can I appeal a prohibition order?

Review and appeal rights exist under most state and territory Food Acts. Check the notice and your jurisdiction's process for how to seek a review.

Is it the same as an improvement notice?

No. An improvement notice lets you keep trading while you fix a breach, whereas a prohibition order stops the affected activity until clearance is given.

What if I keep trading anyway?

Trading in breach of a prohibition order is a serious offence that can lead to prosecution and substantial penalties under the Food Act.

Improvement notice Inspection Infringement notice (penalty notice) Food Act Environmental Health Officer (EHO) Food safety glossary Food safety guides
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