Australian allergen liability is strict and getting stricter. The single biggest gap in most venues is the booking system not capturing allergens before the customer arrives.
The booking question
“Any allergies or dietary needs in your group? We’ll have a chat with the kitchen before you arrive.”
This goes on the online booking form, the phone-booking script, the SMS confirmation. Three touchpoints, same question.
The kitchen handoff
Allergens for tonight’s service get printed on the pre-shift sheet. Section lead confirms with the kitchen. The waiter mentions it at the table. The customer sees the chain of communication and feels safe.
What this prevents
A serious allergen incident with documented “they didn’t ask” can cost a venue $20K–$60K in defence costs alone, regardless of fault. The 30-second booking question is the easiest insurance you can buy.