Apply for a licence to process, pack, store and distribute seafood

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

• handles fin fish, crustacean or cephalopod
• processes, packages or stores seafood
• transports seafood, except when it is transported for sale at a retail outlet or from a retail outlet to the consumer.

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 fishing licence and business number
• 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 licence for a food business – seafood (excluding 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 based on the number of food handlers involved in the activity.
• You’ll be notified of processing times within 10 working days.
• 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.