Background & implementation of Standard 3.2.2A

A new national Food Safety Standard is in place to assist food businesses in handling and processing food in a way to ensure it is safe to eat.

In December 2022, Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) added Standard 3.2.2A – Food Safety Management Tools into the Food Standards Code. The Standard is an extension of existing requirements and introduces three food safety management tools for food service, caterers and some retail businesses.

Why was the Standard made?

In June 2018, the Australia and New Zealand Ministerial Forum on Food Regulation found the highest proportion of foodborne illness outbreaks in Australia were from food service and retail businesses.

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) along with Australian states and territories developed Standard 3.2.2A to make sure food handlers in these sectors have food safety knowledge and use practices that keep food safe.

What is different from the existing Food Safety Standards?

The new Standard builds on Standard 3.2.2, by strengthening the requirements for skills and knowledge of food handlers and for businesses to show they’re keeping high-risk food safe.

When do businesses need to meet the requirements?

The new Standard became law on 8 December 2022, with a 12-month transition period. Affected businesses must comply from 8 December 2023.

Who will check compliance with the Standard?

Compliance with the Standard will be monitored by local council Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) or Food Safety Auditors during routine food safety inspections or audits.

Will there be a cost to my business?

Some investment is likely needed for businesses to meet Standard 3.2.2A. This may include:

  • providing time for food handlers to complete a food safety training course and/or making sure they have the appropriate skills and knowledge;
  • paying for a food handler to complete Food Safety Supervisor (FSS) certification, or employing a previously certified FSS;
  • developing and/or providing training on processes, records, or other ways that show that key food safety controls are monitored and managed.

What are the penalties for failure to comply with the new Standard?

The penalties for non-compliance with the Food Standards Code are prescribed in Section 21 of the Food Act 2001. These penalties have not changed since the introduction of the Standard 3.2.2A.

Further information