Ensuring food safety in the Central Goldfields

Published on 01 April 2021

Did you know Council is required to monitor local food businesses to ensure they comply with food safety requirements and legislation?

This includes registration and inspection of food businesses as well as issuing permits for temporary food premises and stalls.

Council also investigates complaints and concerns regarding food premises.

As part of this, Council’s Environmental Health Officer has commenced its annual inspection process. This involves in-person visits to the 128 registered food premises – cafes and restaurants - in the Shire, to carry out an inspection for compliance.

The inspection involves assessing compliance from when ingredients are purchased to when the ingredients are turned into a meal and served to a customer.

In Victoria, any business that sells food or drink must be registered with their local council.

Last year, Council waived the fees for food premises registration to support the local hospitality sector in the wake of the pandemic.

If proprietors do not have their premises registered, they may face legal action from Council.

Central Goldfields Shire Maryborough Ward Cr Gerard Murphy said the work of Council’s Environmental Health team was often misunderstood in the community.

“We’re keen to raise the profile of the work that happens across Council which is often un-seen. Like many areas of Council, unless you own a food business, residents probably don’t realise that compliance is a key part of this role.

“Food safety has always been critical but never more so than during a pandemic. Big thanks to our Environmental Health Office Richard Sackey for the work he has and continues to do in keeping our community’s much-loved hospitality sector safe and compliant.”

Council’s Environmental Health Officer Richard Sackey said food inspections were an enjoyable part of the role.

“I value the opportunity to get to know our local operators and develop positive working relationships so that we can work together to achieve compliance under the Food Act 1984.”

For more information about food premise registration, and to register visit https://www.centralgoldfields.vic.gov.au/businesspermits