Federal Court confirms franchisors can be held responsible for franchisee underpayments

The Full Federal Court has confirmed that franchisors can be held responsible for franchisee underpayments and record-keeping breaches under the Fair Work Act. This important decision highlights the need for franchisors to take active steps to monitor, train, and support franchisees to maintain compliance across their networks.
Thinking of Expanding into Franchising?


Franchising offers huge potential for growth, but only if it’s done strategically. Many businesses rush to expand without the right structure, systems, or support — and it costs them dearly later. This article breaks down the five essential steps every emerging franchisor should take to build a sustainable, compliant, and trusted franchise network.
How to Build Trust Between Franchisor and Franchisee from Day One


Trust is the cornerstone of every successful franchise relationship — but it doesn’t begin when the ink dries on the agreement. It starts from the very first interaction. From transparent communication and fair decision-making to showing genuine empathy for your franchisees’ day-to-day challenges, the early days set the tone for long-term success.
Discover how to build trust from day one — and why it’s your franchise system’s most valuable asset.
2025 Compliance Check: What Every Australian Franchisor Needs to Know


New franchising rules took effect in 2025, and the ACCC is already issuing fines for non-compliance. For franchisors, staying compliant isn’t optional—it’s vital to protect your brand, your franchisees, and your bottom line.
The proposed franchise register. What you need to know!


The federal government has released plans to improve transparency in the $180 billion franchising sector that’s often plagued with disputes between franchisees and franchisors. The draft amendments, which were announced as part of the May 2021 budget, will see the establishment of a new disclosure register if they pass Parliament. Treasury is leading the consultation, allowing […]
It’s been a rough year, but is franchising in recession?


The election of a coalition government promised an economic boon that would re-instil confidence in the small business sector. Now, just a few weeks on, the Federal government looks poised to tackle some of the industry’s most prevalent concerns, but is it enough? While critics have been calling for an independent review of the franchising […]
Aventus is on the move…!


Aventus Commercial Lawyers is moving from its current location in Fortitude Valley, to new premises at The Cove, 59 Doggett Street, Newstead QLD 4006. The move will occur over the weekend of 15/16 June 2019, and we will open our doors for business on 17 June 2019. All phone numbers and email addresses will remain […]
Calls for franchising sector inquiry gather steam, but should it only focus on the “negative stories”?


The prospect of a parliamentary inquiry into Australian franchising will be back on the table next week, but those familiar with the sector say it will only help the system if the good examples of franchising are also featured in a review. Nationals Senator John Williams is set to move a referral next week to […]
ACCC takes action against franchisor GEOWASH Hand Car Wash


The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has applied to the Federal Court for leave to commence proceedings against Geowash Pty Ltd (subject to deed of company arrangement) (Geowash), a national car wash franchisor that has been marketing and selling hand car wash franchises since 2013. The ACCC proceedings will allege that Geowash made false or […]
The lifecycle of a franchise system – INFOGRAPHIC


The lifestyle of a franchise system – INFOGRAPHIC All franchise systems have a life-cycle. From inception of the idea, to creation of the franchise offering, to expansion of the network, to conclusion through possible sale. Each point of the franchise life-cycle has its own challenges. Download our franchise life-cycle infographic and take a look for […]