Maxi Foods Ordered to Close in Ferntree Gully
Maxi Foods in Upper Ferntree Gully has been ordered to stop trading immediately. Knox City Council issued the order on the 23rd of March 2026. The directive follows an inspection under the Food Act 1984. Council officers identified serious food safety concerns at the premises.
Council Finds Contamination and Vermin Evidence
Knox Council confirmed the premises were unclean and unsanitary. Inspectors also reported clear signs of contamination and disrepair. Specifically, the report listed vermin excrement on floors and food surfaces. It also noted contaminated food and items unsuitable for sale. As a result, council deemed the business unsafe to operate.
Immediate Closure under Food Act Powers
The order prohibits any sale or handling of food at the site. Therefore, the business cannot operate until all issues are resolved. Council requires full compliance with every item listed in the order. An authorised officer must confirm all issues have been fixed. Until then, the premises must remain closed to food operations.
Order Must be Publicly Displayed
The business must display the closure order on site. Importantly, the notice must remain visible to the public from outside. This ensures transparency for customers and the wider community. It also signals that enforcement action remains in place.
Right to Appeal Remains Available
The business can appeal the order through the Magistrates’ Court. However, the appeal must be lodged within 21 days. Meanwhile, the closure remains active unless revoked by council.
Community Safety Remains the Priority
Food safety breaches can pose serious health risks. Therefore, council action aims to protect local residents and customers. Knox News will continue to monitor updates on this situation.
