Georges River Council has completed its Food Shop Inspection Program for the year, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring the health and safety of our community by maintaining high standards for food safety in local businesses.
Notably there were less regulatory actions undertaken this year, indicating an improvement in the state of food shops across the Local Government Area (LGA) arising from the program.
There are 869 food premises in the Georges River area. During the 2024–2025 financial year, Council increased its education, inspection and regulatory efforts, dedicating additional staff and resources to ensure all high and medium risk food businesses were routinely inspected.
Council investigates every food-related complaint it receives. When businesses fail to meet compliance requirements, follow-up inspections and regulatory actions are enforced.
Education is a key part of Council's approach. Environmental Health Officers work closely with food business owners to provide practical guidance, promote safe practices, and support compliance with Australian food laws.
As part of this commitment, Council supports food businesses required by law to have a Food Safety Supervisor, such as those in cafes, schools and restaurants, to meet this requirement and maintain safe food handling practices.
Georges River Council Mayor Elise Borg said "The variety of food in Georges River is a wonderful reflection of our community's creativity and diversity.
"Our Environment, Health and Regulatory Services team works closely with food business owners from all backgrounds to maintain high food safety standards, ensuring delicious meals can be enjoyed by all.
"I encourage everyone in our community to explore and experience the many flavours on offer."
Council submits an annual activity report to the NSW Food Authority under the Food Act 2003. While individual inspection results are not publicly released, residents can view a list of businesses that have been fined or prosecuted.
To learn more about food safety standards and check the status of local food businesses, visit the NSW Food Authority website.
