The licence issued to farmers, manufacturers, carriers and distributors is the passport to operate and trade in the Victorian dairy industry. It offers identity and legitimacy, inhibits unregulated entry to the industry and provides industry protection and security. As such, a dairy licence is to be highly valued and protected.

A current and valid dairy licence must be held by a:

• Dairy Farmer
• Dairy Carrier
• Milk Broker
• Dairy Manufacturer
• Dairy Distributor

The objectives of DFSV outlined in the Dairy Act 2000 are to:

• Ensure that standards which safeguard public health are maintained in the Victorian dairy industry; and
• Ensure that it performs its functions and exercises its powers efficiently and effectively.

As stated in the Dairy Act 2000, the functions of DFSV are to:

• Establish, maintain and improve:
  • The food safety standards of dairy food;
  • The standards of construction and hygiene standards for plant and equipment in dairy manufacturing premises; and
  • The standards of maintenance, cleanliness and hygiene standards of dairy transport vehicles.
• Monitor and review the above standards;
• Approve and monitor the implementation of food safety programs;
• Administer the DFSV licensing systems;
• Ensure appropriately qualified persons are appointed as authorised officers;
• Fix and charge fees for carrying out its functions and exercising its powers;
• Protect public heath in consultation with the Department of Human Services or a Municipal Council; and
• Advise the minister on matters relating to dairy food safety administration.