I am buying a business - what do I need to do?

Buying an existing food business

If you are purchasing an existing food business, you must apply for your own food business licence.
Food licences do not transfer as part of the sale.

Application Timeframes

Council may take up to 30 days to assess and decide on your application.

Please allow sufficient time when submitting your application, as:

  • Inspections may need to be arranged, and
  • Additional information may be requested during the assessment process.

Pre‑Settlement Inspections

Council officers do not undertake pre-settlement inspections.

Applicants are encouraged to consider engaging a private consultant if independent advice or inspections are required prior to purchase.

Charitable and Community Organisations

If you are applying as a bona fide charitable or community organisation, you must provide evidence confirming your not-for-profit status.

How do I apply?

To apply for a food licence you need to:

  • Complete the Fixed or Mobile Food Business Licence (PDF, 234.5KB) application form.
  • Nominate a Food Safety Supervisor and attach a copy of the certificate of attainment.
  • Submit the completed application form, food safety supervisor training certificates and payment to Council by:

Council has developed a self-assessment checklist(PDF, 1773.KB) to help assist you in taking over and preparing to operate an existing business.

What happens next

After You Apply

Once you submit your application, it will be processed and referred to Council’s Environmental Health Team for assessment.

Inspections

Council is required to carry out an inspection of the premises before a food business licence can be issued.

  • Inspections can only occur after settlement
  • The inspection must be completed before you commence trading

To assist new operators, Council has developed a self-assessment checklist (PDF, 177.3KB) to help you prepare the premises before your inspection.

Licence Approval

If Council is satisfied that:

  • The premises meets food safety requirements, and
  • The applicant is suitable to hold a licence.

a food business licence will be issued.

Licences are generally issued until the end of the financial year (30 June).

Provisional Licences

If some matters are identified during inspection, Council may issue a provisional licence.

The inspecting officer will:

  • Advise what actions are required, and
  • Provide guidance on how to obtain your full food business licence.

Routine Inspections

Once approved, your business will be placed on Council’s routine inspection program.

Your first routine inspection is generally scheduled within 3 months of your licence being issued.

Back to top