Australia Franchise Information
About Franchise Council of Australia (FCA)
The Franchise Council of Australia (FCA) is the peak industry body for the franchising sector in Australia, representing franchisors, franchisees, and service providers. For decades, the FCA has been dedicated to promoting the growth of a healthy and ethical franchise industry, ensuring it operates with fairness, transparency, and professionalism. The council serves as the collective voice for its members, actively engaging in advocacy and lobbying efforts with government bodies to shape a balanced and effective regulatory landscape, most notably concerning the Franchising Code of Conduct.
Beyond its advocacy role, the FCA is committed to fostering excellence through education, professional development, and networking. It provides a wealth of resources, training programs, and industry events, including the annual National Franchise Convention, which brings together key players to share insights and best practices. By setting standards, providing accreditation, and championing ethical conduct, the FCA plays an indispensable role in upholding the integrity and sustainability of the Australian franchise sector, making it a vital resource for anyone involved in the industry.
Information
Name: Franchise Council of Australia (FCA)
Address: Level 3, 21 Victoria Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia.
Website: www.franchise.org.au
Phone: +61 3 9508 0888
Email: [email protected]
Contact
Mr. Jay Wesbury, CEO
Email: [email protected]
Resources
In Australia, franchise regulations are governed by the Franchising Code of Conduct and the Competition and Consumer Act 2010. These laws ensure that franchisors and franchisees act fairly and transparently in their dealings.
Key aspects of these regulations include:
- Disclosure Obligations: Franchisors must provide clear and accurate information to franchisees, including the terms of the franchise agreement and any associated costs.
- Contractual Rights: Both franchisors and franchisees have rights and obligations under the franchise agreement, which is a contract. Non-compliance can lead to penalties.
- Competition and Consumer Laws: Franchisors and franchisees must adhere to competition and consumer laws, including the Australian Consumer Law.
- Franchise Agreement: A franchise agreement must meet specific conditions, such as payment of market value for the purchase or lease of necessary business assets.
- New Code Implementation: The new Franchising Code of Conduct will start on 1 April 2025, with some rules applying from 1 November 2025.
Businesses in Australia must follow these laws to ensure compliance and protect their interests. It is essential to understand the legal obligations and what to do to protect yourself when engaging in franchising activities.
Sources
Franchising | ACCC