What are the penalties for food safety violations in NSW?

What are the penalties for food safety violations in NSW?

Food safety offences in NSW are governed by the Food Act 2003 (NSW). Penalties range from on-the-spot fines to significant court-issued fines and even imprisonment for the most serious offences.

Penalty Infringement Notices (on-the-spot fines)

Authorised council officers can issue PIns on the spot for common offences such as:

• Failing to have a qualified Food Safety Supervisor: $880
• Failing to maintain adequate temperature control: $880
• Failing to notify local council of a food business: $550
• Failing to maintain or display Scores on Doors: $440

Court-imposed penalties

For more serious offences, council or NSW Food Authority may prosecute in the Local Court or District Court:

• Selling unsafe food (Food Act s18): individual up to $440,000; corporation up to

  About this FAQ

  This page provides in-depth information and insights regarding faq 13 in the context of food safety and compliance in NSW.

  AMES Food Advisory is dedicated to providing high-quality, actionable knowledge to help businesses navigate HACCP regulations, NSW Food Authority compliance, and operational food safety.

  • Comprehensive breakdown of standards.
  • Regulatory insights and audit preparation techniques.
  • Real-world applications for cafes, restaurants, and manufacturers.

  Why this matters

  Staying informed on the latest food safety practices ensures your business operates safely, protects consumers, and avoids costly penalties from local council or state regulators.

  .2 million
• Failing to comply with a Food Safety Program: individual up to $44,000; corporation up to

  About this FAQ

  This page provides in-depth information and insights regarding faq 13 in the context of food safety and compliance in NSW.

  AMES Food Advisory is dedicated to providing high-quality, actionable knowledge to help businesses navigate HACCP regulations, NSW Food Authority compliance, and operational food safety.

  • Comprehensive breakdown of standards.
  • Regulatory insights and audit preparation techniques.
  • Real-world applications for cafes, restaurants, and manufacturers.

  Why this matters

  Staying informed on the latest food safety practices ensures your business operates safely, protects consumers, and avoids costly penalties from local council or state regulators.

  20,000
• Obstruction of an authorised officer: up to
  1,000
• Serious cases can result in imprisonment of up to 2 years

Improvement notices and prohibition orders

Beyond fines, EHOs can issue Improvement Notices requiring specific corrective actions within a set timeframe, and Prohibition Orders that close part or all of a food business until compliance is achieved. Premises can be closed immediately if there is an imminent health risk.

AMES Food Advisory helps businesses achieve and maintain compliance, reducing the risk of regulatory action.