Mobile and temporary food business
What is it?
If you have a mobile or temporary food business, such as a food van, which is garaged in the City of Port Phillip, you need to register it to operate.
You can register your business with us using the website FoodTrader. This is a state-wide registration site for temporary and mobile food businesses.
Through FoodTrader you can:
- apply for registration with City of Port Phillip
- manage your renewal of registration each year
- list when and where you will trade (called a Statement of trade or ‘SOT’).
Please note foreshore trading sites are limited and only offered via fixed-term licences. If a site becomes available, they will be offered through a Public Expressions of Interest process and advertised on the City of Port Phillip Tenderlink site. Alternatively, contact the Property team on 03 9209 6777, or email property@portphillip.vic.gov.au for further details.
Who’s it for?
FoodTrader is for businesses, individuals or community groups selling food or drinks from a mobile food van or temporary food premises.
Fees
| Type of fee | Cost |
| Application fee | $268 |
| Registration/notification fee | Varies from $0 to $950 per calendar year. Class 4 notifications do not attract a registration fee. |
Before you apply
Find information and factsheets on running a mobile food business or a temporary food stall on the FoodTrader website.
We recommend you submit a plan for your proposed mobile food vehicle prior to construction. This will ensure that it complies with the National Food Safety Standards.
It must show the:
- the equipment you'll use
- equipment location.
Equipment may include things like:
- handwashing facilities
- cooking equipment
- sinks
- storage areas.
When you apply
A mobile food vehicle must be inspected by an Environmental Health Officer before registration is granted.
You’ll need to submit your application through FoodTrader and an Environmental Health Officer will contact you.
An application fee of $268 applies and the ongoing fees vary from $0 to $950 per calendar year.
After you apply
If your application is approved, we will issue a certificate of registration for your business.
You’ll be able to download this certificate through FoodTrader. FoodTrader has information on how to do this on their website.
Permission to operate
If you want to sell food on Council land you must apply for permission. You can apply online using My Port Phillip or using the PDF form.
Before applying, review the:
Contact us
Our Health Services team is here to help.
Send us a message on My Port Phillip
Email: healthservicesunit@portphillip.vic.gov.au
Phone: 03 9209 6292