Inspection savaged in Victoria

Issue 

By Sue Bolton

MELBOURNE — A survey of 78 local governments conducted by the Victorian state parliamentary Labor Party, results of which were made public on April 9, revealed a massive drop in the number of food inspectors. This follows the state Liberal government's amalgamations of local councils and the introduction of compulsory competitive tendering for local government services.

"The survey of 78 councils shows the number of food inspectors has dropped from 317 to 199 in the past three years, a reduction of nearly 40%", said shadow health minister John Thwaites.

"Instead of being out inspecting food premises and improving public safety, the food inspectors are now spending hours stuck in council offices preparing tender documents."

Thwaites also said that because food safety regulations were abolished by Premier Jeff Kennett's government in 1994, it is now more difficult for food inspectors to enforce proper standards of food handling.

"Rules about the storage of food, temperatures at which it should be stored and shop cleanliness have been abolished", Thwaites said. This had made it more likely that cross-contamination will occur, leading to outbreaks of food poisoning.

A year after it had allowed the health and cleanliness regulations in the state's Health Act to lapse, the Kennett government abolished local council regulations requiring at least one employee at food handling premises to attend an eight-hour food handling course at a TAFE college or accredited private institute. Thwaites accused the government of putting public safety at risk because of its obsession with business deregulation and public sector employment cutbacks.

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.