In Australia, the food industry is governed by stringent health and safety regulations to ensure that all food served to the public is safe, hygienic, and prepared in compliance with the highest standards. Whether you’re aspiring to be a chef, work in catering, or simply partake in any role involving food preparation and handling, completing a Food Handler course is not just beneficial—it’s a requirement. In this article we provide you with an overview of what you need to know about getting your Food Handler Certificate in Australia.
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What is the “Food Handler Course”?
The Food Handler Course is designed to equip individuals with the fundamental knowledge and skills required to ensure food safety and hygiene in various settings, including restaurants, cafes, fast food outlets, and catering services. The course covers essential topics such as foodborne illnesses, proper food handling techniques, personal hygiene, cleaning and sanitizing processes, and pest control.
Since December 2023 Food Standards Australian New Zealand require that all individuals involved in food handling must have evidence of training for basic food handlers.
Why it’s important?
Food safety training is crucial for several reasons:
- Preventing Foodborne Illnesses: Understanding how to handle food safely helps reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses, protecting both customers and businesses.
- Compliance with Regulations: Completing a Food Handler Course ensures that individuals and businesses comply with Australian food safety laws and regulations.
- Enhancing Employment Prospects: Holding a food safety certificate can enhance job prospects in the food industry, as employers prefer candidates who are already trained in food safety.
Is the course valid nationwide?
Yes once obtained, the course can be used in all states and territories in Australia.
How to get a Food Handler certificate?
There are several food safety courses available, tailored to different roles within the food industry. The most basic is the Food Handler Course (sometimes referred to as Level 1), suitable for anyone involved in the handling of food. For those in supervisory or managerial roles, a more advanced course, such as Food Safety Supervisor (Level 2), might be required.
Online vs. In-Person training
Depending on your preference and schedule, you can choose to complete the course online or attend in-person training sessions. Online courses offer flexibility, allowing you to complete the course at your own pace.
In all cases, ensure that the course provider is an RTO registered with the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) to deliver nationally recognized training.
Get your Food Handler certificate with EOT online
We recommend you get your certificate online with EOT. Their Food Handler Course meets all the requirements of the 2023 Food Standards Australian New Zealand.
What you will learn during the course
- Food Standards, Laws and Local Government
- Food safety programs and the Law
- Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP)
- Personal Hygiene & Handwashing
- Receiving and storing Stock
- Preparing and Processing food, Danger Zone, Contamination and Hazardous Foods
- Serving & displaying Food
- Disposing of Food, Cleaning your Environment
- Identify and report issues
- Procedure Examples.
The course involves a combination of theoretical learning and practical assessments. You’ll need to pass the final assessment to receive your certification.
Once successfully completed you will be issued with a Certificate of Completion which is valid for people working in the preparation or service of food in all Australian states and territories.
Features & Benefits
- Fast & Easy
- 100% Online Course – No Classroom
- Stop & Resume at any time
- Download & Print Certificate of Completion
- Valid for work in all states
Cost and duration
The cost and duration of a Food Handler Course can vary depending on the provider. Generally, online courses can range from $50 to $100. The time required to complete the course can vary from a few hours to a full day.
With EOT, you can get your certificate online in a few hours for $35 (instead of $50).
