You may be aware that the federal government has released the new Franchise Code of Conduct which will commence from 1 April 2025.
You can see below to read the explanatory statement which assists in part to guide you to the changes and also see the actual new code of conduct.
As will be expected, the FCA member law firms will no doubt be providing significant updates and interpretations as to the application and use of the new code specific to the various franchise networks across the country. We encourage you to engage in the various information sessions and updates that will follow over the coming weeks and months and into next year. As ever, we thank the franchise legal community for their significant support and assistance across the sector as the details of the new code are unpacked and explained.
The FCA will monitor and review feedback from across the membership and will explore options should the new code present significant challenges or variations from the drafting and changes that were accepted post the FCA submissions to the new code.
I know this is a lot for members to consider and review given that we have also this week released the submission on a potential licensing regime for franchising, but I assure you the FCA continues to engage with government and the various departments to push for the best outcome possible for the sector.
We will keep you post as new information comes to light and if there are any further significant matters to consider with this new code.