SECTOR requirements:
Food Processing Sector
Training Requirements
From home based producers to manufacturing plants, and packaging facilities, maintaining food safety is crucial for both legal compliance and preventing costly shutdowns or penalties in the food processing industry.
Who Requires Training
All individuals who process, handle, store, or come into contact with food, or food-related surfaces in the food processing industry must be trained in food safety.
This includes maintaining cleanliness of equipment and utensils in food production areas.
Below are the key training requirements under Food Code Standard 3.2.2A for food processing businesses:
- Food Safety Supervisor (FSS): Every food processing business must appoint at least one trained Food Safety Supervisor. The FSS is responsible for ensuring food safety protocols are followed and identifying potential risks in high-risk food operations.
- Food Handlers: All those involved in food manufacture, processing, packaging, or storage must complete food safety training or demonstrate the necessary skills and knowledge to handle high-risk foods safely.
It is important to make sure all personnel involved in the process are trained in food safety, don’t forget to include:
- New Employees: Food safety training should be part of the onboarding process for new hires to ensure they comply with regulations from day one.
- Temporary or Seasonal Workers: Even short-term employees should undergo food safety training to maintain consistency and compliance across the board.
- Supervisors and Managers: Individuals overseeing food processing activities must also complete food safety training to effectively manage risks.
- Delivery and Logistics Staff: Employees handling the transportation of processed foods may require specific training, particularly in temperature control and safe food storage.
Food Safety Supervisor Training Requirements
Most food processing businesses will require at least one designated Food Safety Supervisor (FSS) available during operational hours.
The FSS must meet the following criteria:
- Recognised Training: The FSS must complete the training through a Nationally Recognised Training Organisation (RTO)
- Current Certification: Certification must be issued within the last five years to remain compliant.
- NSW-Specific Requirements: In New South Wales, the FSS must complete training with an NSW Food Authority-approved provider and hold a separate NSW Food Authority Certificate.
Our Food Safety Supervisor Training for the food processing sector is currently in development.
Food Handler Training Requirements
Under Food Code Standard 3.2.2A, all food handlers must either:
- Complete a basic food handler course training course, or
- Demonstrate equivalent skills and knowledge in food safety and hygiene.
Food handler training should cover critical areas such as:
- Safe food handling
- Preventing food contamination
- Cleaning and sanitising practices
- Personal hygiene
Our Food Handler Training provides the essential government-mandated content, with added insights and best practices for food handlers.
Units of Competency
Food Safety Supervisors
The Food Processing sector in Queensland and Victoria accepts the following Units:
- FBPFSY1002 – Follow work procedures to maintain food safety
- FBPFSY2002 – Apply food safety procedures
All Other States
- You’ll need to complete a unit of competency from another food industry sector closest to your businesses type. Check the specific requirements for your state or territory with your local food authority.
Food Handlers
Food Handlers are not required to complete a recognised Unit of Competency, but their training has specific requirements as outlined in the Food Handler training requirements above.
Training Expiry & Renewal
Food Safety Supervisor Training:
- Expires five years from the date of issue.
- NSW: Recertification must be completed with an approved NSW Food Authority provider.
- Other States: Renewal is achieved by retaking the course.
Food Handler Training:
- Recommended to refresh every 1-2 years or following any food safety incident.
FOOD HANDLER
Engaging Video Presentation with Subtitles & Multi-Choice Questions
All States
2025 Food Handler Certificate - Retail & Hospitality
$49.95
Per enrolment
- Completely Online
- Video-based training
- Enrol and Access 24/7
- Certificate on Completion
FOOD SAFETY SUPERVISOR
Please select the State where you intend to work