By Jay Westbury, CEO, Franchise Council of Australia
Running a franchise business is not easy, and in today’s environment, franchisees face challenges on multiple fronts—from rising costs and regulatory complexity to staffing shortages and economic uncertainty. While the recent interest cut helps including in boosting consumer confidence, we all know there’s a lot still to be done.
At the Franchise Council of Australia (FCA), our mission is to ensure that franchise businesses get the support you need to thrive, grow, and contribute to the economy.
Two critical developments are shaping our focus this year:
- The release of the National Small Business Strategy by the Federal Government, which the FCA welcomes as a step in the right direction for small businesses, including franchisees.
- The launch of the Franchise Industry Awards (FIA), a landmark initiative recognising excellence in franchising and providing franchisees with an opportunity to showcase their achievements.
Both of these initiatives matter for franchisees and your businesses. That’s why the FCA is working hard to ensure we deliver real value to the people who operate Australia’s franchise businesses every day.
The National Small Business Strategy: Why It Matters for Franchisees
The FCA has long called for greater recognition of small businesses in government decision-making, and the National Small Business Strategy is an important first step towards that goal.
With 2.6 million small businesses contributing $590 billion to the economy and employing over 5.4 million Australians, franchising plays a crucial role in Australia’s small business landscape.
The FCA supports the National Small Business Strategy because it recognises the vital role small businesses play and aims to improve coordination across governments to create a better operating environment. A strong, national approach to small business policy can provide franchisees with:
- Better government support: A clear framework that ensures small businesses are considered in decision-making.
- Stronger collaboration across levels of government: Simplified regulations and policies that don’t change dramatically from state to state.
- Recognition of the challenges franchisees face: From compliance burdens to financial pressures, small business policies must address the realities of running a franchise.
This strategy is a foundation to build upon which is why the FCA is also calling for continued bipartisan support. Franchisees need stability and certainty, not policies that shift with political changes. Whoever wins the next election must commit to supporting and enhancing this strategy, not starting over.
We will continue to work closely with Government, the Opposition and the cross bench to ensure this strategy delivers real benefits for franchisees, ensuring that small business policy isn’t just well-intentioned words but practical action that helps franchisees succeed and grow.
Celebrating Franchise Excellence: The Franchise Industry Awards (FIA)
Franchisees work incredibly hard to build your businesses, serve your customers, and support your local communities. All too often though these contributions go unseen.
That’s why industry recognition matters, and the FCA is proud to have launched the Franchise Industry Awards (FIA) as the signature event to celebrate excellence in franchising.
The FIA Gala Awards Night, taking place on 25 June 2025 at the Fullerton Hotel Grand Ballroom in Sydney, will be the premier event for recognising outstanding achievements across the franchise sector.
For franchisees, the FIAs offer several key benefits:
- Industry Recognition – Being named a finalist or winner highlights the hard work and success of your franchise. The FIA awards are designed to celebrate franchisees, franchisors, and suppliers who are leading the way in franchising.
- Business Credibility – Award-winning franchisees gain valuable recognition that can enhance their brand reputation, attract new customers, and strengthen relationships with suppliers and partners.
- Networking and Growth Opportunities – The black-tie gala event and afterparty provide franchisees with the chance to connect with key industry figures, share insights, and build relationships that can help their business grow.
- Marketing and Promotion – Finalists and winners will receive exclusive FIA logos to promote their achievements, giving them a competitive edge in the market.
Importantly, the FIAs are open to all franchisees, not just FCA members. We want this to be an event that truly represents the entire industry, and by including non-members, we are ensuring that the best and brightest in franchising are recognised.
We have already seen strong early interest from sponsors, demonstrating the high level of excitement and support for this event. There are still opportunities for businesses to sponsor and align your brands with the awards. With limited tables available, we encourage you to secure your place early and be part of this milestone celebration of franchising excellence.
What’s Next?
At the FCA, we are focused on ensuring that franchisees receive the recognition, support, and policy backing you deserve.
Now is the time to engage, participate, and take advantage of these opportunities. Whether it’s leveraging new government support, nominating for the FIA awards, or simply staying informed on key issues affecting franchising, your involvement makes a difference.
The FCA is here to ensure that franchisees are front and centre in Australia’s small business landscape—both in policy and in industry recognition.
Let’s continue working together to build a stronger, more successful future for franchising.
For more information on the National Small Business Strategy, the Franchise Industry Awards, or how the FCA is advocating for franchisees, visit www.franchise.org.au
About FCA CEO – Jay Westbury
CEO Jay Westbury brings over two decades of experience in leading peak industry bodies, including his previous roles as CEO of Retail Drinks Australia (formerly Australian Liquor Stores Association) and the Australian Travel Industry Association (formerly Australian Federation of Travel Agents). Both sectors have close ties to franchising, giving Jay a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within this industry.