The implementation of new national Food Safety Standards for berries, melons, and leafy vegetables is progressing at different speeds across Australia, with some states enforcing the rules and others delaying them for further consultation.
In Queensland, the standards' rollout has been postponed to allow more time for industry-government dialogue. As a result, producers and processors are not currently required to apply for accreditation. Safe Food Queensland will provide advance notice when the regulations come into effect. Growers are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the new standards and subscribe to the Safe Food Queensland Horticulture E-Bulletin for updates.
New South Wales is redrafting its Food Regulation following public feedback on proposed licensing requirements for berry, leafy vegetable, and melon businesses. The revised regulation, incorporating changes from the original draft, will take effect on 12 February 2026. The NSW Food Authority plans to finalise the regulation by 1 September 2025. Until then, no action is required from industry, and no licensing, inspections, or fees will apply.
In Victoria, the standards took effect on 12 February 2025, and Agriculture Victoria will begin enforcement from 1 July 2025. Recognised food safety schemes include Freshcare, GlobalG.A.P., SQF, and BRCGS. Freshcare members are expected to benefit from a streamlined compliance process. Growers who have not registered or completed compliance steps are urged to do so. Additional resources, including those specific to berry growers, are available through the Agriculture Victoria Resource Library.
South Australia is reviewing feedback from industry stakeholders on proposed regulatory amendments to adopt the standards. The Department of Primary Industries and Regions South Australia (PIRSA) is working on updating regulations and will issue further information in due course.
In Tasmania, general food safety obligations remain under the Food Act 2003. The state government is developing a new legislative and administrative model to improve food safety in primary industries. While the current system has served well, changes are planned to meet evolving best practices.
The Australian Capital Territory has not yet issued public guidance on how or when the standards will be implemented. Information on business registration, inspection processes, and scheme recognition is still pending.
Western Australia has already adopted and is enforcing the new standards under the WA Food Act 2008. Since 12 February 2025, leafy vegetable and melon growers and processors must register as a food business with their local government, while berry producers must notify their local council. Compliance is now legally required across the state.
Each jurisdiction is handling the rollout based on its regulatory environment and stakeholder feedback, with updates expected as implementation progresses nationwide.
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For more information:
Rachel Mckenzie
Berries Australia
Tel: +61 (0) 408 796 199
Email: [email protected]
www.berries.net.au
