Ask the Collective

Do we need to register as a food business with local councils?

Yes, food business registration with your local council is required. The process is straightforward and not particularly onerous unless you're doing something unusual. **Registration process:** - Fill out the registration form with your local council - Council will schedule an inspection at some point, though timing can vary - For non-alcoholic products, registration is described as "super easy" - If you're using fresh ingredients (e.g. fresh fruit in production), expect an inspection to verify your handling and storage practices - Processing can take a few weeks, especially if you have multiple sites or a complex distributor network that requires uploading and geo-verification **Practical note:** Members report the council's timeline for inspection visits is unpredictable and not always urgent. If you have questions about your specific setup, experienced members are willing to advise.