Register a food business

Food businesses in the Northern Territory (NT) are required to register before operating.

You can apply online via Territory Services to start a new registration, or to renew or cancel your existing registration.

Who must register

You must register if your main business operation is to sell food.

You do not need to register if you:

• sell low-risk packaged food, such as those sold in pharmacies, newsagencies or bottle shops
• provide complimentary beverages, like those offered by a hairdresser or fashion outlet
• raise funds by selling food solely for community or charitable purposes and are listed under exemptions for charities and community events.

When to register

You must register if you have started a new or recently acquired a food business.

Food registration periods depend on your business's risk classification:

• priority 1 and 2 registrations are valid for one year
• priority 3 registrations are valid for 3 years.

Read more about risk classification in food businesses.

You must then:

• renew at least 30 days before the expiry
• start a new application if registration has lapsed
• cancel your registration within 14 days of selling or closing your business.

What you need

To start a new registration application, you will need:

• to verify your identity as part of the online registration or in person with an environmental health officer - get their contact details on the NT Health website
• business details including ACN or ABN
• contact information for the business proprietors
• the proposed menu
• evidence of water testing if the business uses private water supplies.

If you're renewing your registration, you do not need to provide the menu unless it has changed.

Fees

You are required to pay your fee on application for both new businesses and renewal applications.

The fee for registering or renewing depends on the risk classification of your food business.

You must pay in the online form using a MasterCard or Visa credit or debit card.

Read more about risk classifications and fees.

Regulations

Read more about food safety and regulations.

Contact

For more information, contact Environmental Health. Get their contact details on the NT Health website.