Purchasing an Existing Food Business
The Food Act 1984 requires that all business that handle, prepare, package, store, serve, supply, repackage food must be registered with their local Council.
Transferring the Food Act registration
If you are purchasing an existing food business you will need to transfer the Food Act Registration into your (company) name.
Pre purchase assessment
A request for current information relating to a food premises is available. A request must be lodged in writing to the Environmental Health. The current proprietors consent to release information to the requestor is also required to be submitted and the payment of a required fee for the assessment and subsequent report.
An Environmental Health Officer (EHO) will undertake an assessment of the premises. A report is completed and forwarded to you within approximately five working days.
The current proprietor and proposed proprietor should then decide who will action any outstanding items as listed in the report. An application for the transfer of registration will also accompany the report and must be completed on settlement.
Food Safety Program
Most Victorian food businesses are required to have a Food Safety Program before a transfer of registration can be granted. You will need to submit your Food Safety Program to the Environmental Health Unit before settlement. Further information regarding Food Safety Programs can be found at the Department of Human Services website.
Your business will need to have a nominated Food Safety Supervisor. This person will be responsible for the implementation of the Food Safety Program. You are required to provide Council with the name and qualifications of the Food Safety Supervisor when you submit your Food Safety Program. For a list of other training providers visit the National Training Information Service (NTIS) website.
Granting registration
You must have submitted a Food Safety Program together with the application for transfer of registration under the Food Act, this must be completed and signed by the current and proposed proprietor with the fee paid. Once this has been submitted and all conditions to the satisfaction of the EHO have been met, you will receive a new Certificate of Registration under the Food Act 1984. You are now able to operate your business to the public.
Already bought a food business?
If you have already purchased an existing food business and have not transferred the Food Act registration then you must contact the Environmental Health Unit and fill out an Application to Transfer Registration as soon as possible.
Where can I get advice?
Should you require any advice regarding purchasing an existing food business, please call Council's Environmental Health Unit on 8290 3393.