Guide to NSW Food Authority Registration for Food Businesses

Guide to NSW Food Authority Registration

All food businesses in NSW must notify the NSW Food Authority and their local council before commencing food handling activities. For certain higher-risk businesses, a formal licence (not just notification) is also required. This guide explains both processes.

Food Business Notification (all businesses)

Every food business in NSW — including home-based food businesses, market stalls, food trucks, cafes, and manufacturers — must complete an online food business notification at the NSW Food Authority's portal. This is a legal requirement under the Food Act 2003 (NSW).

• Go to foodnotify.foodauthority.nsw.gov.au
• Register your business details, food handling activities, and Food Safety Supervisor information
• Pay the annual notification fee (varies by council area and business type)
• You will receive a unique Food Business Notification Number

NSW Food Authority Licensing (high-risk businesses)

In addition to notification, the following business types require an NSW Food Authority licence:

• Food manufacturers and processors
• Dairy processors and distributors
• Egg graders and processors
• Meat processors and butchers (licensed premises)
• Seafood businesses (processing, aquaculture)
• Vulnerable person food service businesses (aged care, hospitals, child care)
• High-risk caterers

After registration: what to expect

After notifying, you can expect a council inspection within the first 3–6 months of operation. Prepare by completing your Food Safety Program (if required), training your team, and setting up temperature monitoring and record-keeping systems before you open.