The Albanese Labor Government is committed to a fair playing field in franchising and has today tabled the Independent Review of the Franchising Code of Conduct in Parliament.
The review by small business expert, Dr Michael Schaper, makes 23 formal recommendations and 34 implementation suggestions for Government to consider.
The franchising sector is an important employer and contributor to the Australian economy, collectively employing more than 500,000 Australians.
The review found that the Franchising Code of Conduct is generally fit for purpose but could benefit from some improvements.
Beyond the Code, the review also recommends that Government give more thought to broader changes to franchising regulation including whether a licencing scheme for franchising is a more appropriate regulatory regime.
More than 1700 franchise entities were invited to participate in the Review’s consultation, with 95 formal submissions received, over 40 meetings and roundtables held, and 544 responses across two surveys.
The Government will carefully consider the findings and recommendations from the review before making a response.
The review is available on the Treasury website.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Small Business, Julie Collins MP:
“The Government is committed to a transparent and effective regulatory framework for the franchising sector.
Having the right settings underpins positive relationships between franchisors and franchisees and ensures confidence in the sector.
This review is an opportunity for Government to make sure the regulatory settings support the sustainability and growth of franchising into the future.
I thank Dr Schaper for conducting the review, and all those stakeholders in the franchising sector for their engagement throughout the review.”
