Look out for your 2026–27 waste collection calendar in the Monash Bulletin, delivered to households in the second half of May.
Before planning any food business, please refer to Monash Council’s Public Health Food Premises Design and Fit Out Guidelines(PDF, 3MB). This will help ensure your premises meet the requirements of the Food Standards Code.
For a short video on starting a restaurant, please see the Department of Health’s website: Animation about how to start a food business.
Relevant fees apply to each permit. After set-up and final inspection, Council will provide you with an invoice to pay the relevant fees. For a list of fees, please see Permit Fees(PDF, 302KB)
Payment methods:
Inquire as to whether approval and permits from other relevant authorities are required. This includes Council’s Planning and Building departments (call 9518 3555) and other relevant authorities, for example Yarra Valley Water or South East Water.
Determine classification of food business under the Food Act 1984 and relevant requirements. Access this information at Food Business Classifications.
Lodge copies of plans including specifications, or request an inspection of the premises if using an existing building.
Council now offers a streamlined online single application form and specialist customer service through a Business Application Officer to help you upfront and throughout your permit process (checklists and tools to guide you through assessing and applying for the right permits). Visit: Starting or Buying a Business - Business Application
NOTE: If you would like to operate a food business from a residential home, visit: Home-Based Food Businesses
For a temporary or mobile premises, you need to apply for a permit via foodtrader.vic.gov.au
If your business primarily involves the manufacturing or production of dairy, red meat, poultry or seafood, you will need to register your business with Dairy Food Safety Victoria at dairysafe.vic.gov.au or PrimeSafe instead of Council.