The Franchise Council of Australia (FCA) has concluded an impactful two-day delegation to Canberra. The series of high-level meetings provided the delegation with substantial insights including into the Government approach on the Independent Review of the Franchising Code.
Led by FCA Chair Brendan Green, CEO of Hire A Hubby, and FCA CEO Matthew Monaghan, the delegation of senior Franchise Sector leaders including:
- Richard Thame, CEO of Couriers Please;
- Steve Grossrieder of JAX Tyres and Auto;
- Dan Mesiti, a multi-site Boost franchisee;
- David Mansfield, Managing Director of Ascott Australia;
- Matt Fitton and Amber Biesse, COO and Founder and CEO and Founder respectively of Nurse Next Door;
- Costa Cominos, Associate Director, National Retail Partnerships, Optus; and
- Kerri Wane, CEO of San Churro.
The FCA Insiders group engaged in fruitful discussions with political and bureaucratic decision makers that revolved around the pressing issues of franchising, skill, and workforce shortages, and improvements to the governing framework.
“The FCA’s active and ongoing presence in Canberra highlights our dedication to fostering a resilient franchising sector to support our members who make up a large proportion of small businesses in Australia.” Brendan Green, Chair of the FCA
The visit commenced with a critical dialogue with the Office of the Minister for Skills and Training, the Hon Brendan O’Connor, focusing on the pivotal role of franchising in the vocational education and training sector. It progressed to a productive roundtable with Minister for Small Business the Hon Julie Collins, who is at the helm of the Franchise Code Review. Minister Collins reiterated her dedication to a collaborative and consultative approach, ensuring the review’s outcomes are both practical and balanced. Detailed discussions about the workforce issues and the sector’s needs also took place with the office of the Minister for Industrial Relations, the Hon Tony Burke.
An especially informative meeting with the team at Treasury running the Franchise Code Review was another highlight. Discussions with Deputy Leader of the Opposition, the Hon Sussan Ley, and Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor, further underscored the bipartisan importance of the franchising sector.
About the Franchise Council of Australia (FCA)
The Franchise Council of Australia (FCA) is the peak industry body for franchising in Australia, representing both franchisors and franchisees. With a rich history spanning four decades, the FCA is committed to promoting excellence, best practices, and innovation in the franchising sector. As a national voice on franchising, the FCA advocates for the interests of its members and works collaboratively to ensure the growth and success of franchising in Australia.