Introduction
Western Australia’s vast geography, vibrant tourism, and unique industries—from seafood to remote mining sites—mean food safety is not just important, it’s essential. With over 25,000 food businesses across the state, the Department of Health WA plays a crucial role in maintaining high standards and enforcing laws that keep the public safe from foodborne illness.
Whether you’re a first-time food handler, a café owner, or a food truck operator in WA, understanding the laws, licensing, and training requirements is critical to your success and public safety compliance.
Why Food Safety Matters in WA
Foodborne illness affects thousands of Australians each year, and Western Australia is particularly vulnerable due to:
- Remote communities with limited healthcare access
- A booming seafood sector requiring cold-chain integrity
- Large populations in aged care and childcare, who are more susceptible to illness
- High numbers of mobile and pop-up vendors at events and festivals
- WA’s hot climate, which increases the risk of food spoilage and contamination
Overview of WA’s Food Safety Framework
Western Australia’s food safety structure is primarily governed by:
- Food Act 2008 (WA) – The central law covering food safety offences and responsibilities
- Food Regulations 2009 – Provides operational detail and enforcement powers
- Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code – National guidelines adopted in WA
- Local Government Authorities – Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) enforce the law locally
Together, these create a tiered framework ensuring food sold in WA is safe, accurately labelled, and fit for consumption.
WA Food Safety Laws and Regulations
Understanding WA’s legal food safety framework is vital for food workers and business owners. Compliance ensures public health is protected and helps businesses avoid costly penalties or closures.
Food Act 2008 (WA)
The Food Act 2008 is the primary legislation governing the sale of food in WA. It applies to:
- All food businesses operating in WA, including home-based and temporary setups
- Individuals responsible for handling food or supervising food operations
- Environmental Health Officers (EHOs), who have authority to inspect, issue notices, and prosecute
Key features include:
- Offences for unsafe or misleading food practices
- Powers for inspections, closures, and enforcement
- Requirements for food business registration and food handler training
WA Food Regulations 2009
These regulations expand on the Food Act, detailing:
- Storage and transport standards
- Handling, preparation, and service guidelines
- Penalty provisions and inspection procedures
The regulations ensure that safe practices are standardised across industries, including retail, hospitality, healthcare, and education.
Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code
The Food Standards Code applies across Australia and includes:
- Food labelling and packaging laws
- Ingredient and allergen declarations
- Standards for food additives, contaminants, and microbiological limits
In WA, this code is enforced alongside local laws, ensuring national consistency.
Licensing and Registration for Food Businesses in WA
If you prepare, store, handle, or serve food in WA, you may require a food business licence or registration. The licensing process varies depending on your business type, risk level, and location.
Who Needs a Food Business Licence in WA?
Generally, businesses handling unpackaged food for sale must be licensed or registered. Examples include:
- Cafes, restaurants, bakeries
- Food trucks and market stalls
- Aged care facilities and childcare centres
- Caterers and home-based kitchens
Exemptions may apply to very low-risk operations, such as those selling only pre-packaged, non-perishable goods.
How to Register a Food Business in WA
Steps to register:
- Contact your local council to determine if licensing or registration is required
- Complete the registration form (available online or at the council office)
- Submit floor plans, food handling procedures, and other documents
- Pay the applicable registration/licensing fee
- Prepare for an initial inspection by an Environmental Health Officer
WA Local Government Roles in Food Licensing
Councils are responsible for:
- Processing food business applications
- Conducting routine and unannounced inspections
- Providing advice and resources to help businesses comply
- Issuing enforcement notices if standards are breached
Training and Certification Requirements in WA
Under WA law, all food handlers must have the necessary skills and knowledge to safely handle food. Training can be completed online or in person.
Mandatory Food Handler Training
WA legislation requires that food handlers are trained in:
- Safe food preparation and storage
- Personal hygiene practices
- Preventing cross-contamination
- Cleaning and sanitation procedures
This applies to both new and existing employees in food businesses.
FoodSafe® Online and Other Accredited Courses
Popular food handler training options in WA include:
- FoodSafe® Online – Developed by Environmental Health Australia (EHAWA), recognised by many WA councils
- EOT Courses – Government-accepted, affordable, online options for hospitality and retail
- TAFE and RTO Programs – Offer nationally recognised training
These programs teach core competencies and often issue certificates upon completion.
👉 Enrol in accredited food safety training to meet WA’s legal requirements and boost your employability.
Choosing the Right Food Safety Training Provider
When selecting a course, ensure it:
- Is accredited or recognised by WA authorities
- Covers required competencies for your industry
- Offers downloadable certificates for proof of training
- Fits your budget and schedule
Food Handling Practices & Requirements in WA
Once trained, food handlers must apply safe practices during food storage, preparation, and service.
Personal Hygiene and Hand Washing
WA expects food workers to:
- Wash hands thoroughly before handling food, after using the toilet, or touching raw meat
- Use gloves appropriately and change them often
- Maintain clean clothing and tie back long hair
Food Storage and Temperature Control
Strict rules apply to temperature control in WA:
- Cold foods: stored below 5°C
- Hot foods: kept above 60°C
- Danger zone: between 5°C–60°C, where bacteria can multiply rapidly
- Use calibrated thermometers and regularly check storage units
Preventing Cross-Contamination and Allergen Management
WA food handlers must:
- Store raw and cooked foods separately
- Clean surfaces and utensils between tasks
- Use separate equipment for allergen-specific foods
- Clearly label allergen-containing products
Inspections, Audits, and Enforcement in WA
Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) conduct routine and unannounced inspections across all registered food businesses in WA.
What Environmental Health Officers Check
EHOs assess:
- Cleanliness of kitchen and food prep areas
- Pest control measures
- Temperature control records
- Staff hygiene practices
- Food labelling and storage procedures
Compliance Notices, Fines, and Prosecution
If a business fails an inspection, consequences can include:
- Improvement notices or prohibition orders
- On-the-spot fines
- Legal prosecution for severe breaches
- Forced closure until issues are resolved
How to Prepare for a Food Safety Inspection
Tips for businesses:
- Conduct internal audits regularly
- Train staff and maintain updated procedures
- Keep food safety documentation on file
- Use cleaning checklists and pest control logs
Reporting Food Safety Incidents in WA
Both consumers and employees can report unsafe food or hygiene breaches.
How to Report Unsafe Food or Hygiene Issues
To report a concern:
- Contact the local council where the food business operates
- Submit an online complaint via Healthy WA
- Provide details: business name, issue description, time and date, and optional photos
- Reports can be made anonymously
What Happens After a Report Is Submitted?
Authorities may:
- Inspect the business
- Collect food samples
- Interview staff or witnesses
- Issue warnings, fines, or closure notices
Food Safety Resources and Support in WA
Stay compliant and informed by accessing WA’s comprehensive food safety support.
Where to Find Help and Advice
- Department of Health WA – Legislation and guidance
- EHAWA – Training and resources for food workers
- Local councils – Registration, inspections, and support
- Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) – National standards
Online Tools and Templates for Food Businesses
- Food safety plan templates
- Cleaning schedules
- Allergen labelling checklists
- Complaint reporting forms
Available from:
- Healthy WA
- FoodSafetyWA
- Local council websites
FAQ
Do I need a food safety certificate to work in WA?
Yes, food handlers must complete accredited training that meets WA’s legal requirements.
How do I report a food poisoning incident in Western Australia?
Report through your local council or via the WA Health online complaint form.
What temperature should food be kept at in WA?
Cold: Below 5°C; Hot: Above 60°C. Avoid the 5–60°C danger zone.
What is the Food Act 2008 (WA)?
It’s WA’s primary legislation for food safety, covering offences, enforcement, and responsibilities.
Who enforces food safety laws in WA?
Local councils and Environmental Health Officers (EHOs), under guidance from the Department of Health WA.
Are online food safety courses accepted in WA?
Yes, courses like FoodSafe® Online and EOT are recognised by most councils.
What happens if a business fails a food inspection in WA?
It may receive warnings, fines, or be forced to close until compliance is restored.
Is FoodSafe® Online accredited by WA authorities?
Yes, it’s recognised by EHAWA and many WA councils.
How often are food premises inspected in WA?
Frequency depends on the risk level but can range from every 6 months to annually.
Do home-based food businesses need a licence in WA?
Yes, if you handle or prepare unpackaged food for sale, registration or licensing is required.
Key Points Recap
- WA food safety laws are governed by the Food Act 2008 and local councils
- Food businesses must register and may require a licence
- Training is mandatory and can be completed online via food safety courses
- EHOs conduct inspections and enforce compliance
- Support and resources are widely available through government platforms
