Apply for a licence to cultivate or harvest shellfish

You must hold a licence with the NSW Food Authority if your business:

• cultures, harvests or collects shellfish
• cleans shellfish
• cultivates spat.

You can apply and pay for the licence online. To apply for more than one premises, you need to lodge a printed application form with the NSW Food Authority.

• your personal and contact details
• the ASIC company statement showing name/s of the director/s (if applicable)
• the certificate of registration of your business name issued by Fair Trading NSW or ASIC (if applicable)
• the certificate of incorporation (if applicable)
• your NSW Fisheries permit
• details of the business activities and location
• your payment.

1. Select the 'Apply online' button.
2. Complete the online eligibility screen and if your business is eligible, continue to application screens.
3. Complete the applicant details, facilities and consents and declaration screens.
4. Review charges and proceed to payment options.
5. Submit your application.

If you're unable to apply online:

1. Download and complete the Application for a seafood licence – shellfish cultivation or harvest – PDF.
2. Gather the required documents.
3. Submit your application with payment by mail, fax or email, to the details on the form.

• You only pay one licence fee if you apply for more than one premises at the same time.
• Your licence fee is calculated on the lease area of your farm and local program.
• You’ll be notified of processing times within 10 working days.
• After submitting your application, you're required to undergo a licensing audit or inspection.
• You must not start business operations until your application has been processed.
• Businesses licensed with the NSW Food Authority must comply with the Food Act 2003, Food Regulation 2015 and the Food Standards Code.
• A licence can't be transferred.
• If you require a licence to transport shellfish, please go to Apply for a food transport business licence.