We call on the Australian government to modernise the regulations surrounding raw milk cheeses. While some hard cheeses made with raw milk are permitted under special agreements, most soft raw milk cheeses remain banned, including iconic styles like Camembert de Normandie, Loire Valley goat cheeses, and traditional English soft cheeses — all legally available in New Zealand, Europe, and Asia.

These cheeses are not inherently unsafe. In fact, Listeria can occur in pasteurised products, salads, melons, and factory-made cheeses. The issue isn’t raw milk — it’s how we handle and trace food.

 
What We Are Asking For
We propose a two-license system that prioritises safety, traceability, and informed choice:

1. Raw Milk Cheese Sales Licence
For specialty cheese shops only
Cheese must be sold online with in-store pick-up only (no delivery)
No self-service sales
Customer name and contact required for all purchases
Health advisory visible at point of sale (re: pregnancy & immune system)
Staff must hold a certification similar to Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA)

2. Raw Milk Cheese Import Licence
For businesses importing cheese directly from approved countries
Partner dairies must meet testing & hygiene standards
No large-scale wholesale or distribution — direct-to-consumer only
🇦🇺 Australian cheesemakers would also be eligible to make raw milk soft cheeses under this scheme — as long as they sell only to licensed retailers.
 
Why It Matters
Australians deserve access to the same quality and diversity of cheese as consumers in New Zealand and Europe.
Artisan cheesemakers — both local and international — should have a legal framework to produce and sell safe, traditional, and delicious raw milk cheeses.
This petition does not concern raw milk for drinking or general cooking.
We are proposing a regulated, transparent, and safe retail system — not mass distribution.
 
✅ If we reach enough signatures, we can bring this plan to the government.
We believe in a smarter approach — one that supports food artisans, gives consumers more choice, and keeps public health front and centre.

👉 Sign below and share with cheese lovers, food advocates, and anyone who believes Australia deserves a better cheese future.