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.
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.
As part of the Department of Health’s Horticulture Standards, the Fresh Produce Safety Centre published 13 Food Safety Grower Guides providing key information and best practice guidance on food safety for fresh produce growers, from pre-harvest to post-harvest activities. The new Horticulture Standards cover leafy vegetables, berries and melons, and the guides will help growers adopt practices that will support compliance.
Quality Assurance
WA has an enviable food safety record underpinned by widespread uptake of food safety programs. Most producers, packers and retailers require food safety systems within third party audited quality assurance programs.
The WA Department of Health is responsible for ensuring food and food businesses meet the Australia and New Zealand Food Code. Local Governments enforce the requirement.
Further information is available from Food Standards Australia New Zealand and your local council.
Common quality assurance schemes
Food labelling in WA
Food labels should provide consumers with clear and unambiguous information to enable them to make informed choices. While the department is not involved in the delivery of these regulations, we liaise closely with regulatory agencies.
Food labels should provide consumers with clear and unambiguous information to enable them to make informed choices.
Businesses can develop Nutrition Information Panels (NIP) for their food products as well as allergen and claim related information. Visit the Food Standards Australia New Zealand website for more information.
Concerns relating to labelling should be addressed to the Environmental Health Officer at your local government authority.