No, raw cow’s milk intended for human consumption is illegal in Australia under the Food Standards Code (Standard 2.2.1), enforced by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ). State health laws mirror this prohibition, with penalties for sale or supply. Exemptions exist only for raw milk used in cheese aged ≥60 days, regulated by local Dairy Food Safety Victoria or NSW Food Authority inspections.
Key Regulations for Raw Milk in Australia
- Prohibition on sale: Raw drinking milk cannot be sold in any state or territory, including direct-to-consumer farm sales (e.g., via raw milk “cow-share” schemes), per Food Standards Code 2.2.1.
- Cheese aging exemption: Raw milk cheese must undergo ≥60 days aging to reduce microbial risks, monitored by state dairy regulators (e.g., Dairy Food Safety Victoria under the Dairy Act 2000).
- 2026 compliance shifts: FSANZ is reviewing raw milk labeling rules post-2023 outbreaks; proposed changes may tighten traceability requirements for dairy processors handling unpasteurized milk.
Enforcement falls to state health departments (e.g., NSW Food Act 2003), which prosecute violations. Imported raw milk products face automatic detention by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. Non-compliance risks fines up to $660,000 for corporations under the Competition and Consumer Act 2010.