There are enormous differences between Catering Companies in Perth and it can be difficult to compare one with another. There are several hundred caterers listed in the Yellow Pages however there are a relatively small number of reputable licensed function caterers. The check list below has been prepared to give you an idea of what to look for and to assist you in making the right decision when choosing a caterer for your function.

Most people spend a great deal of money on catered functions so to ensure that you are getting what you are paying for why not visit the premises of the caterers you are considering. This way you can see for yourself how they compare on the below mentioned points.

Services Offered by the Caterer
a) Is the caterer's kitchen appropriate to handle your function and is it clean;

b) Does the caterer have sufficient service and kitchen staff to look after your requirements or do they use agency staff (check the guest/service staff ratio);

c) Can the caterer supply appropriate quality table ware and equipment; and

d) Additional to food, beverage, staff & equipment is the caterer able to offer you a full range of services including event production, technical direction, audio visual equipment, event theming, speakers & masters of ceremony, entertainment, floristry and photographers.

Appropriate Licensing
a) Caterers Gold Licence’s are issued by the Restaurant and Catering Association of Australia and assure the public that the caterer has regular health inspections, appropriate public/product liability and workers compensation insurance and that key staff are appropriately trained.

b) Special Facilities Caterers Liquor License issued by the Department of Liquor, Racing and Gaming assures the public that all staff are trained in the responsible service of alcohol and ensures clients that all legal responsibility related to the service of alcohol is taken care of by the caterer. If the caterer has this license you do not need to worry about a license.

Where is the Food Cooked
Many caterers are only food brokers. Food brokers buy pre-prepared food from other food manufacturers and from the freezer cabinet and assemble meals at the function. These caterers actually produce very little food themselves.

Membership of appropriate Professional Organisations A good indicator of standards is to check that caterers belong to appropriate professional organisations. These include Restaurant & Catering Industry Association of Australia, Catering Institute of Australia, La Chaine Des Rotisseurs, Perth Convention Bureau & Meetings Industry Association of Australia.

Food Transportation
The Health Act requires that food be transported below 5° or above 60°. The only safe way to transport food to functions and to store it until required is in refrigerated vehicles. There was a recent large event in Perth where many guests received food poisoning because the Caterer did not transport food legally.

Industry Awards
The Restaurant and Catering Association of Australia offer a number of awards to caterers annually both at State and National levels. Clients can gain some indication about a catering company from recent awards won especially National Awards.