A was introduced on 1 April 2025. Some rules in the new code apply from 1 November 2025. Changes cover:
We’ve prepared guidance to help franchisors understand the changes under the new code and when they apply. Where relevant, we have updated and added information about the changes to franchising pages.
If you operate a franchise system or a franchised business, you need to understand the laws that apply.
The franchising code is a mandatory code of conduct that regulates the franchising industry in Australia.
Parties must act in good faith in their business dealings with each other. This includes those who enter, or propose to enter, into a franchise agreement.
Buying a franchise is a big decision. Find out as much as you can beforehand from legal advisors, the franchisor, and current and past franchisees.
Our free online course ‘Is franchising for me?’ is a great starting point if you're thinking about buying a franchised business.
The franchisor must give the statement to prospective franchisees. It highlights issues to think about before becoming a franchisee.
The franchise agreement is a contract. It sets out the rights and responsibilities of the franchisor and franchisee.
Supply arrangements are when a franchisor controls who a franchisee can get their supplies from, what they can sell, or who they can sell to.
Franchisors must disclose extra information when there is a lease or other agreement related to the franchise.
Franchisors must create a disclosure document to share key information about the franchise.
The franchise disclosure document must include information about significant capital expenditure that is required by the franchisor.
It’s common for franchisors to require franchisees to pay money on an ongoing basis for a specific common purpose, such as marketing fees. There are rules to follow.
Use the register for free to find franchise information. Franchisors must create a profile and publish information.
Under the Franchising Code of Conduct, there are some costs that franchisors can’t ask franchisees to pay for.
There are rules for how and when franchisors disclose information and give documents.
During a franchise agreement, the franchisor may want to sell or leave the franchise system.
After an agreement has been signed, the franchisor usually can’t change a franchise agreement.
​​​​​​Franchisees are not automatically entitled to a further term. Franchisors must notify franchisees whether they'll extend or grant another agreement.
Franchise agreements usually operate for a limited time. Franchisees need to think ahead about what happens when the franchise agreement ends.
Sometimes a franchisee may want to sell their business before the term of their agreement is up.
As there is often a power imbalance between franchisors and franchisees, the code sets out what they must do when there's a dispute.
The ÌÇÐÄÔ´´ is responsible for compliance and enforcement of the franchising code. We conduct franchising compliance checks and takes action to enforce the law. We also educate franchisors and franchisees.