Country of origin

What is country of origin labelling?

Country of origin labelling tells us the country, or countries, where a food is grown, manufactured or packaged.

All packaged food must state whether it was made from imported or local produce, or a mixture of both.

Some unpackaged food, including fresh and processed fish, pork, beef, sheep and chicken mince, fruit and vegetables, must also display a country of origin label.

These labels can only be used if the key ingredients in the food originated in Australia and the food is manufactured in Australia:

• Product of Australia
• Produced in Australia
• Produce of Australia

These labels can only be used if the food has been significantly changed or processed in Australia and at least 50% of the cost of production has been incurred in Australia:

• Made in Australia
• Manufactured in Australia

On 1 July 2016 the Australian Government introduced new food labels to make it clearer where the products you buy are produced, grown, made or packed.

As of 1 July 2018, the new labels on products are mandatory. The new labelling system is administered under Australian Consumer Law and no longer a requirement under the Food Standards Code.