Street Vendors - Rules and Regulations
Cabramatta Town Centre is a vibrant place that showcases the best Southeast Asian offerings of fresh food, cuisine, and contemporary food options that are widely popular. While street food selling is customary in Southeast Asian countries, it’s important to note that these vendors are unauthorised, and there is no designated or regulated area for such selling within Cabramatta.
Operating without authorisation is a breach of the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW), specifically Section 68, Part E (1), which prohibits engaging in trade or business on public land without the necessary approvals from Council. Unauthorised trading can pose a risk to public health, particularly when proper temperature controls cannot be guaranteed. Additionally, business proprietors in the area generally expect that unauthorised street sellers be moved on, as they compete for space and may sell goods that compete with their offerings. Furthermore, Council’s experience shows that these unauthorised activities often impact the cleanliness of the town centre, as vendors may lack appropriate means to dispose of their produce and packaging.
Council’s Enforcement Officers are required to enforce regulations that are in place to ensure public safety, fairness, and compliance with local laws. They are also trained to engage with the community respectfully, with the goal of ensuring that everyone, including business proprietors, operates within the legal framework.
While it may appear culturally insensitive to fine and move on street sellers, there is a broad expectation from the community that relevant laws are complied with and enforced. As these vendors are unauthorised, they are subject to fines under the Local Government Act. It is Council’s preferred practice to warn street sellers wherever practicable and deemed fair and reasonable before fines are issued.
Council understands the cultural significance of street selling. However, the enforcement of these regulations is necessary to maintain public health, fairness, and the overall cleanliness of the town centre.
For more information contact Council during business hours on 02 9725 0222.