In 2022, the Department of Health conducted a review of the Food Act 2008 (the Act), seeking feedback from the public and stakeholders on whether the Act was operating effectively and meeting its objectives.
What did the review cover?
The review had two main focus areas:
1. Examining the operation and effectiveness of the Act against its objectives to:
- ensure food for sale is safe and suitable for human consumption
- prevent misleading conduct in connection with the sale of food
- ensure WA is consistent with the national Food Standards Code.
2. Identifying any issues with the operation and effectiveness the Act, including through analysis of feedback from stakeholders and the public during the review’s consultation period.
Report
The final Report on the Review of the Food Act 2008 (external site) was tabled in Parliament on the 9 May 2023.
The review
It found that the Act is working well, but there are opportunities to improve and streamline information and guidance materials for businesses and local government.
The Department of Health is developing a work plan to prepare updated materials for local government and industry on topics including:
- registration of food businesses
- mobile food business
- improvement notices and prohibition orders
How can I keep up-to-date with the latest information?
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Contact
Science and Policy Unit, Environmental Health Directorate
Email: ehinfo@health.wa.gov.au
Last reviewed: 18-02-2022
Produced by
Environmental Health Directorate