Grow National: Ripe & Ready - Being Audit-Ready

Whether you're preparing for a retailer audit, an internal review, or a certification against SQF, BRCGS, Freshcare, or HACCP-based systems, knowing what auditors look for - and why - can make all the difference.

This one-day practical workshop is designed specifically for Australian food manufacturers who want to sharpen their audit readiness and gain real insights into the audit process. Go behind the scenes to understand how auditors think, what documentation they want to see, and how to respond to findings the right way.

You’ll walk away with the confidence to manage any audit, tools to train your team, and proven strategies to maintain food safety standards every day - not just when an audit is due.

Tailored specifically for members of the food manufacturing sector, this course covers:

• the types of audits in Australia (including GFSI schemes, retailer standards, and regulatory audits)

• How to prepare your site, people, and paperwork

• What auditors typically ask, and how they assess risk and compliance

• How to communicate clearly and professionally during an audit

• How to handle non-conformances and develop robust CAPAs (Corrective and Preventive Actions)

How you'll learn
You'll complete a 6 hour in-person workshop (Please bring a laptop if possible)

• Real-world case studies

• Interactive group work

• Practical tools and checklists

• Mock audit exercises

• Insights from experienced auditors

About your presenter

Mashhuda Carrigan is a HACCP-certified food technologist with 9 years of experience in food safety, quality and compliance. She has worked in both primary processing and value-added streams, with extensive experience in high-risk, cook-chill, ready-to-eat products.  

She has an in-depth understanding of regulatory requirements, GMP, and continuous improvement frameworks. Mashhuda is known for driving robust food safety culture across cross-functional teams and has successfully delivered multiple audit-ready system implementations. Her proactive approach to risk assessment and process optimisation has consistently improved product integrity and operational efficiency.

Her industry experience is complemented by a master’s degree in food science and technology from The University of Queensland, and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, which informs her learning design, delivery and assessment principles.

This workshop will be presented in collaboration with FaBA, Australia’s Food and Beverage Accelerator.

Cost of workshop
A nominal fee to cover catering (tea/coffee, morning tea and lunch)

Welcome to our Food & Agribusiness Network event! We're delighted to capture and share the moments that reflect the spirit of our community. Your presence may feature on our digital platforms as we celebrate this shared experience. If you'd prefer not to be photographed or filmed, please let a FAN team member know. Our goal is to ensure a positive experience for all!