The cost of food
registration varies according to the classification, size and operations of the business that is being registered under the Food Act.
Registration Period - January to December
The Registration period is for the calendar year. There are currently no pro-rata fees.
Initial registration
The cost of food registration for businesses is charged when the application form has been assessed by the Environmental Health Officer.
These fees are charged on a scale depending on the classification and the size of the food operation. These are approximate amounts only and no pro-rata fees apply.
The initial setup and registration fee range:
These are the 2024-2025 fee levels and is subject to change.
There are no fees for Class 4 food operations.
Not for profit groups
Charities, Community Groups or Not for Profit Associations are charged at a lower rate and will be determined by the Environmental Health Officer at the time of registration.
The approximate range for these groups is Class 2 and Class 3 and Class 3a: $115 - $456.
These are the 2024-2025 fee levels and are subject to change.
Renewal fees
The annual food registration fees range:
These are approximate amounts only and no pro-rata fees apply.
These are the 2024-2025 fee levels and are subject to change.
Performance fees
Additional fees may be applied when a food business inspection does not rate an A, when inspected by the Environmental Health Officer.
These are called Performance fees and are added to the annual renewal fee when issued for the following year. This fee is based on the Food Business Compliance.
If a premise is rated a C or below the fee will be applied and will be scaled ranging from approximately $195 - $326 per year.
These are the 2024-2025 fee levels and are subject to change.
Existing business
If you are taking over an existing business we recommend you visit the Business Victoria website to determine if running a food business is for you.
Changes to the Food Act in July 2021 means that there is no longer a requirement to transfer a food business when there is a change of ownership. New owners are now required to lodge a new application to register their business.
Further information is available at buying or selling a food business.