Thinking of starting a food trailer business in Australia? You’re not alone. With lower startup costs and the freedom to serve on the move, food trailers are a booming part of the Aussie food scene. But before you start flipping burgers or brewing coffee on wheels, you’ll need the right licences and permits.
This guide explains exactly how to get a food trailer licence in Australia, broken down by each state. Whether you’re operating in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, or anywhere in between, this blog will help you stay compliant and legally ready to roll.
Table of Contents
What Is a Food Trailer Licence?
A food trailer licence is a legal permit that allows you to prepare and sell food from a mobile food business (such as a food van or trailer). In Australia, these licences are regulated by local councils under each state's food safety laws.
You will generally need:
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A food business licence
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Vehicle registration
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Council approval for trading locations
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Food safety supervisor certification
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Registration under the Food Act (state-specific)
General Requirements Across Australia
Before diving into state-by-state requirements, here are common national steps to take:
✅ Food Business Registration
You must register your food business with the local council where your food trailer is based.
✅ Food Safety Supervisor Certificate
This nationally recognised certificate proves you understand hygiene and food safety standards.
✅ Council Approvals
For each location you trade in, you’ll need council permits (some may require development or temporary structure permits).
✅ Vehicle Compliance
Your food trailer must meet road registration standards and electrical/gas compliance (if using appliances).
New South Wales (NSW)
📝 Step 1: Register with NSW Food Authority
Food trailers must be registered under the NSW Food Act 2003. Registration is done through your local council, which then reports to the NSW Food Authority.
📝 Step 2: Apply for a Mobile Food Vending Permit
Apply to local councils where you want to operate. For Sydney councils (like Blacktown, Parramatta, or Inner West), applications usually involve:
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A site map
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Trading hours
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Waste disposal plan
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Public liability insurance
📝 Step 3: Food Safety Supervisor Training
Required if you handle potentially hazardous food. Courses are offered by RTOs.
Helpful Links:
Victoria (VIC)
📝 Step 1: Use the Streatrader Portal
Register your food trailer using Streatrader, an online platform used across most Victorian councils.
📝 Step 2: Apply for a Statement of Trade (SOT)
Before trading, you must submit an SOT for each council area you’ll operate in.
📝 Step 3: Food Safety Program
Class 2 or 3 food businesses must have a documented Food Safety Program and a trained Food Safety Supervisor.
Helpful Links:
Queensland (QLD)
📝 Step 1: Register with Local Council
Each council manages its own food business licensing. Contact your base council (e.g., Brisbane City Council) and apply under the Food Act 2006.
📝 Step 2: Vehicle Fit-Out Assessment
The council may require an inspection to ensure your food trailer meets food safety and layout standards.
📝 Step 3: Food Safety Supervisor
Mandatory in QLD. Must be appointed within 30 days of starting your business.
Helpful Links:
Western Australia (WA)
📝 Step 1: Register with Local Government
Your food trailer must be registered under the Food Act 2008 (WA) via your local council.
📝 Step 2: Get a Trading Permit
Councils may require a separate permit to trade in public spaces, parks, or events.
📝 Step 3: FoodSafe Training
It’s recommended (and sometimes required) to complete FoodSafe online training provided by Environmental Health Australia.
Helpful Links:
South Australia (SA)
📝 Step 1: Food Business Notification
Notify your local council under the Food Act 2001 (SA). This is a legal requirement before trading.
📝 Step 2: Obtain Trading Location Approvals
If you operate in public spaces, apply to relevant councils or event organisers.
📝 Step 3: Food Safety Training
Although not mandatory, it’s strongly recommended to complete food handling training.
Helpful Links:
Tasmania (TAS)
📝 Step 1: Register with Local Council
Register as a food business under the Food Act 2003 (TAS).
📝 Step 2: Temporary or Mobile Food Licence
You may require a Temporary Food Business Licence if operating at markets and events.
📝 Step 3: Food Safety Supervisor Training
Required for handling unpackaged high-risk food.
Helpful Links:
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
📝 Step 1: Register with Health Protection Service
Mobile food businesses must register with ACT Health and comply with Food Act 2001 (ACT).
📝 Step 2: Approval of Food Vehicle
You’ll need to submit your trailer plans and undergo inspection.
📝 Step 3: Food Safety Training
Food Safety Supervisor certification is required.
Helpful Links:
Northern Territory (NT)
📝 Step 1: Apply for Food Business Registration
Register under the Food Act 2004 (NT) via the NT Government or local council.
📝 Step 2: Submit Vehicle Floor Plan
The Department may request a floor plan of your trailer for hygiene assessment.
📝 Step 3: Food Safety Supervisor
Mandatory for high-risk food handling.
Helpful Links:
Other Permits You May Need
Apart from your food trailer licence, here are other legal requirements to consider:
✅ Roadworthy Certificate
Your trailer must be roadworthy and registered for towing in your state.
✅ Public Liability Insurance
Most councils require at least $10 million coverage.
✅ Gas & Electrical Compliance
Appliances must meet Australian standards and pass inspection.
✅ Waste Management Plan
Demonstrates how you’ll dispose of waste and greywater responsibly.
Final Thoughts
Setting up a food trailer business in Australia is exciting — but it does require proper licensing and planning. By understanding each state’s mobile food vendor licence requirements, you’ll avoid fines and delays, and ensure your business starts on the right track.
If you're unsure where to begin, contact your local council or food authority for tailored guidance. Or better yet — speak to a trailer manufacturer like Bondi Food Trailers, who can help guide you through the compliance process with ready-to-register trailers.