Operating a Food Business? Don’t Forget to Lodge Statement of Trade
If you operate a mobile or temporary food business in Victoria, you may be required to lodge a Statement of Trade (SOT) through your FoodTrader account.
An SOT lets councils know where and when you plan to sell food or drinks in their municipality. This helps councils monitor food businesses operating within their area and supports food safety compliance.
Who needs to lodge an SOT?
An SOT is required under the Food Act 1984 for operators who sell food or drinks to the public from:
A temporary food premises (such as a market stall, tent/marquee, community hall, or hired hall); or
A mobile food premises (such as a coffee cart, ice cream van, food truck, or food trailer).
Some vending machine operators may also be required to lodge a Statement of Trade.
When do I need to lodge an SOT?
You must lodge an SOT before you begin trading in any municipality.
Generally, it should be submitted at least one full business day before you plan to operate. For example, if you intend to trade on a Saturday, your Statement of Trade should be lodged by Thursday.
This requirement applies when attending markets, festivals, community events, or operating a mobile food business such as a food truck or van.
It is important to ensure your SOT has been submitted and is valid before you start trading, as failing to do so may result in non-compliance and possible enforcement action.
Can I lodge an SOT before my business is registered?
No. An SOT can only be lodged once your food business registration or notification has been granted by your principal council.
Before lodging a Statement of Trade, your business must be registered or notified under the Food Act 1984.
Why is SOT important?
Lodging an SOT helps councils identify food businesses operating within their municipality and supports food safety monitoring and compliance activities.
Submitting an SOT ensures that your business is operating in accordance with Victorian food safety requirements and allows councils to undertake inspections where necessary.
What happens if I don’t lodge an SOT?
Failure to lodge an SOT when required may result in compliance or enforcement action under the Food Act 1984. This may include the issuance of an infringement notice (fine) or other regulatory action by the relevant local council.
Further Information
For further information on SOTs, including step-by-step instructions on how to lodge an application, please refer to the FoodTrader User Guide available on the FoodTrader website