On 15 August 2023, the Australian Government announced a review of the Franchising Code of Conduct.
Dr Michael Schaper undertook the review in accordance with the Terms of Reference.
Dr Schaper has extensive experience with the franchising and broader small business sector.
The review included evaluating previous reforms and brought a number of reviews under one umbrella, including statutory reviews of the Franchise Disclosure Register and new car dealership protections in the Code. Dr Schaper delivered a review report and recommendations to the Minister for Small Business, the Hon Julie Collins MP, following wide public consultation.
Consultation
On 22 August 2023 a consultation paper was released. Submissions closed on 29 September 2023.
On 4 October 2023 a franchisee survey was released. The survey closed on 20 October 2023.
On 15 November 2023 a Franchise Disclosure Register survey was released. The survey closed on 26 November 2023.
Media and news
Media release - Independent review of Franchising Code of Conduct - 15 August 2023