Franchising Code of Conduct (mandatory industry code)
Mandatory Code regulating franchise sale, disclosure, dispute resolution.
Who must comply
Franchisors + franchisees.
What triggers it
Franchise relationship.
When due
Continuous; disclosure annual + before sale.
Evidence required
Disclosure document; franchise agreements; complaint records.
Max penalty
Civil penalties up to ~$10M + 3× benefit
Summary
Franchising Code of Conduct under CCA Pt IVB. Pre-disclosure document; good faith obligation; cooling-off + dispute resolution; restrictions on changes + termination. Substantial reform package commenced 1 April 2025 strengthening franchisee protections.
Enforced by
Source legislation
Topics
Related obligations
- CWLTHNotify ACCC of acquisitions meeting mandatory merger thresholdsFrom 1 January 2026, mandatory merger notification regime kicks in.
- CWLTHFood and Grocery Code of Conduct (now mandatory)Major supermarkets bound by mandatory Code with civil penalties from April 2025.
- CWLTHDairy Code of Conduct (mandatory)Mandatory Code governing milk supply agreements between dairy farmers + processors.
Frequently asked questions
- Who must comply with Franchising Code of Conduct (mandatory industry code)?
- Franchisors + franchisees.
- What triggers Franchising Code of Conduct (mandatory industry code)?
- Franchise relationship.
- When is Franchising Code of Conduct (mandatory industry code) due?
- Continuous; disclosure annual + before sale.
- What is the maximum penalty for Franchising Code of Conduct (mandatory industry code)?
- Civil penalties up to ~$10M + 3× benefit
- What evidence is required for Franchising Code of Conduct (mandatory industry code)?
- Disclosure document; franchise agreements; complaint records.
Source: https://accc.gov.au/business/industry-codes/franchising-code-of-conduct. Rules Mate is not a law firm. Always verify against the live regulator source before acting.