Australia prides itself on having world recognised high standards in all aspects of the manufacture, distribution and storage of foods. This gives consumers high levels of confidence in food safety and integrity.
The production and sale of food in Western Australia is governed by the Food Act 2008, Food Regulations 2009 and the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code. Food businesses must comply with the requirements of this legislation, with monitoring and enforcement being undertaken predominantly by the Department of Health and local governments.
The national standards for food safety in Australia are detailed in Chapter 3 of the Code and in the Food Act 2008.
Information on food safety can be found on the Department of Health Western Australia website.
Food safety for businesses
Ways to implement safe food practices into your business operations include:
- Consult the Department of Health Western Australia website to ascertain the appropriate agency to register and inspect your premises.
- Have your premises inspected by the appropriate agency.
- Nominate a staff member to enrol in a Food Safety Program/HACCP course to implement a Food Safety HACCP Program into your operation. Depending on the level of food safety risk in your business, many local government authorities provide food safety training.