How to start a takeaway business in Australia: a step-by-step checklist

Updated 2026-10-27

This checklist covers the steps to open a takeaway or small food business in Australia. Rules differ between states and councils, so treat this as a starting point and confirm each step locally. It is general information, not legal or tax advice.

1. Plan the concept and the numbers

Decide your menu, format (counter, pickup only, delivery, dark kitchen) and target customers.
Cost each dish (see how to price menu items) and estimate rent, wages, equipment and fit-out.
Work out the weekly sales you need to break even.

2. Register the business

ABN: apply through the Australian Business Register.
Business name: register with ASIC if you trade under a name other than your own.
GST: register when your GST turnover reaches A$75,000 a year, or earlier by choice.
Structure: sole trader, partnership or company. Get advice from an accountant.

3. Food business registration and food safety

Register with your local council (or state food authority, depending on the state) before you trade. Councils usually inspect the premises.
Standard 3.2.2A (from 8 December 2023): most takeaway and food service businesses need a certified food safety supervisor (certified in the past 5 years) and trained food handlers. Category one businesses must also keep records for key controls, such as temperatures.
Follow Standards 3.2.2 and 3.2.3 for food handling and premises.
Prepare allergen information. Customers will ask, including on online orders.

4. Premises, permits and insurance

Check planning or zoning approval for food use, signage and any outdoor seating.
Fit-out must meet food premises standards: sinks, surfaces, ventilation, grease traps where required.
Ask about trade waste approval from your water authority.
Arrange public liability insurance and workers compensation if you employ staff.

5. Staff

Check the award that applies (often the Restaurant Industry Award or the Fast Food Industry Award) on the Fair Work Ombudsman website, and set up payroll, super and Single Touch Payroll.

6. Ordering and payments

A POS or card terminal for the counter.
Your own online ordering for takeaway for pickup and delivery, so you don't pay commission on every order.
Decide whether to join Uber Eats or DoorDash for discovery, knowing the commission rates (see the calculator).

Delivery and pickup only? See cloud kitchens in Australia. For the counter, see the restaurant POS guide.

7. Launch

Set up your Google Business Profile before opening day, post on Instagram, and offer a launch special for locals. See restaurant marketing ideas.

From day one, take orders on a restaurant ordering app you already own, and compare plan pricing. See online ordering in your city.

The sourced rates are in our delivery-app commission report.

More guides

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a licence to run a takeaway in Australia?

You need to register or be licensed as a food business with your local council or state food authority, depending on your state. Check with your council before you sign a lease or start trading.

Do I need a food safety supervisor?

Most takeaway shops do. Under Standard 3.2.2A, in force since 8 December 2023, food service businesses handling unpackaged, potentially hazardous ready-to-eat food need a certified food safety supervisor and trained food handlers.

When do I need to register for GST?

When your GST turnover is A$75,000 or more a year (the ATO threshold for businesses). You can register earlier if you choose.

Can I start a takeaway business from home?

Some councils allow home-based food businesses, usually with limits on the kinds of food and the kitchen set-up. Ask your council what applies to you.

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