What Are the Food Safety Requirements for Food Trucks in Australia?

Australia’s food truck sector has grown significantly over the past decade, with more than 5,000 mobile food businesses now operating nationwide. From markets and music festivals to permanent street locations, food trucks have become a thriving part of the country’s hospitality scene. As consumer demand for convenient and diverse dining experiences continues to rise, so too does the responsibility placed on operators.

In Australia, food safety requirements for food trucks include meeting local council regulations, complying with the Food Standards Code and ensuring staff complete the right food safety training. Most food truck businesses need trained Food Handlers, and many also require a certified Food Safety Supervisor. Complying with these requirements helps safeguard customer health and protect the reputation of your mobile food business.

Which food safety laws apply to food trucks?

Do food truck workers need food safety training?

Do I need a Food Safety Supervisor for my food truck?

How are food safety requirements enforced for food trucks?

How to stay compliant as your food truck business grows

Food trucks must meet the same core food safety requirements as many fixed food premises, with extra considerations due to their mobile nature. You are required to handle, prepare, store and sell food safely at all times, whether you are parked at a farmer’s market, community event or roadside location.

At a minimum, food truck operators must comply with the Food Standards Code, which includes Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) Standard 3.2.2A. On top of this, state, territory and local council rules may apply, including licensing, inspections and training obligations. Because requirements can vary, it is important to understand both national and local rules before trading.

Which food safety laws apply to food trucks?

Food truck safety regulations are primarily based on the FSANZ Food Standard 3.2.2A, which applies across Australia. Standard 3.2.2A mandates food safety training covering areas such as temperature control, contamination prevention, cleaning and sanitising and personal hygiene.

Councils and state authorities enforce these rules and may impose additional conditions for mobile food businesses. For example, you may need access to potable water, appropriate waste disposal, safe food storage during transport, and council approval for your vehicle fit-out. Environmental Health Officers can inspect your food truck at any time, including during service.

Reminder: Local councils can have specific rules about where you can operate and how often your food truck is inspected. Always check with the council where you plan to trade.

Do food truck workers need food safety training?

Yes, food safety training requirements apply to food truck staff just as they do in cafés, restaurants and take-away businesses. Anyone involved in handling unpackaged food should understand safe food handling practices to reduce the risk of food-borne illness.

Food Handler training is a key requirement under Standard 3.2.2A. This training helps workers understand how to implement effective hygiene practices, avoid cross-contamination and control food temperatures. It is especially important in food trucks, where space is limited and conditions can change quickly.

Tip: Even if training is not explicitly mandated for every staff member in your area, having trained Food Handlers can make inspections smoother and demonstrate your commitment to food truck food safety.

Do I need a Food Safety Supervisor for my food truck?

Many food truck businesses are also required to have a Food Safety Supervisor.

A Food Safety Supervisor is someone who has completed a nationally recognised Food Safety Supervisor training program and is responsible for overseeing food safety practices in the business.

The requirement for a Food Safety Supervisor depends on the type of food you sell. In general, if your food truck handles unpackaged, potentially hazardous food, a Food Safety Supervisor is likely to be required. This individual must be reasonably available when food is being prepared, served or sold, even in a mobile setting.

Food Safety Supervisor training goes beyond basic food handling. It focuses on identifying hazards, monitoring controls and ensuring staff follow correct procedures. For food truck owners and operators, this role is often filled by the business owner or manager.

How are food safety requirements enforced for food trucks?

Food truck safety regulations are enforced through inspections, audits and complaint investigations. Environmental Health Officers may assess your vehicle, review records and ask staff questions about food safety procedures.

Common areas of focus include:

• temperature control for hot and cold food
• hand washing facilities and hygiene practices
• cleaning and sanitising procedures
• food storage during transport and service

Failure to meet food safety requirements for food trucks can result in improvement notices, potential fines or suspension of trade. Training your team and maintaining clear procedures can significantly reduce these risks.

How to stay compliant as your food truck business grows

If you are expanding your food truck operations, food safety compliance becomes even more important. Adding new menu items, trading at larger events or employing more staff can introduce new risks.

Regularly reviewing your food handling practices and ensuring food safety training is up to date will help you stay compliant with the law. This can be achieved by completing the relevant courses through the Australian Institute of Food Safety (AIFS):

• Food Handler course - ensure your team understands safe food handling practices.
• Food Safety Supervisor course - meet legal requirements and strengthen your Food Safety Program.

If you operate across multiple councils or states, take the time to understand any differences in local requirements. What applies in one area may not fully cover you in another.