The April 2025 Changes to the Franchising Code of Conduct
Peter Snelgar
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The April 2025 Changes to the Franchising Code of Conduct
Part One
This article was originally intended to be a brief summary of those changes to the Franchising Code of Conduct (“the Code”) that were introduced on 1 April 2025. During our review of these changes, with a little breathing room in time, it was quickly decided that at least two parts would be required to give proper justice and thought to the amendments to the Code.
Though we say “amendments to the Code”, this new Code is, essentially, a remake, being able to be differentiated before and after with certainty due to a new numbering system, order of topics and changes extending beyond the more usual ‘addition of sub-sections approach’.
This first part will concentrate on those changes that we believe are largely aimed to increase protections for franchisees for specific circumstances that have come to pass since the initial implementation of the Code. These circumstances may not have initially been planned for or anticipated, and upon their happening may have caused an imbalance of power necessitating redress.
The next of our articles on the topic will detail some of the changes to mechanics and the logistics of documentation and accounting principles for franchisors.
Restraint of Trade
By way of the new Section 42, a franchisor is now prohibited from entering into a franchise agreement that contains a restraint of trade provision that would apply if a number of provisos are met, but essentially, if the agreement contained an option to renew or extend the agreement and the franchisor did not renew or extend the agreement.
This is a particularly specific addition to the Code and does feel as a reaction to a factual circumstance having occurred where a restraint of trade was used in a less than conscionable manner.
This new Section 42 applies to all franchise agreements that were entered into, transferred renewed or extended on or after 1 April 2025.
Early Termination Compensation
The new Section 43 is relevant to all franchise agreements that are not new vehicle dealership agreements.
By way of Section 43(2), franchisors are prohibited from entering into a franchise agreement unless the agreement provides for the franchisee to be compensated if the agreement is terminated before it expires because the franchisor:
- Withdraws from the Australian market;
- Rationalises its networks in Australia; or
- Changes its distribution models in Australia
The agreement must specify how compensation is to be determined, with specific reference to:
- Lost profit from direct and indirect revenue;
- Unamortised capital expenditure requested by the franchisor;
- Loss of opportunity in selling established goodwill; and
- Costs of winding up the franchised business
Pursuant to the new sections 43(3) and (4), franchisors are prohibited from entering into a franchise agreement unless the agreement requires the franchisors to buy back or compensate the franchisee for specific equipment or items purchased by the franchisee, in the event the franchise agreement is terminated before its expiry date under certain circumstances. These specific items and equipment are:
- Outstanding stock purchased by the franchisee that was specified by the franchisor and required to operate the franchise; and
- All essential dedicated equipment and branded product or merchandise purchased by the franchisee that was specified by the franchisor and required to operate the franchise, and that cannot be repurposed for a similar business.
There is a grace period for franchisors in the implementation of these provisions, with them applying to all franchise agreements that are entered into, transferred, renewed, or extended on or after 1 November 2025.
Reasonable Return on Investment
An interesting new provision is that contained in the new Section 44. Again, with a grace period and applying from 1 November 2025.
This Section provides a positive obligation that a franchisor must not enter into a franchise agreement unless that agreement provides the franchisee with a reasonable opportunity to make a return, during the term of the agreement, on any investment required by the franchisor as part of entering into, or under, the agreement.
What the extent of this obligation emplaced on franchisors is, naturally, yet to be tested.
Moving Forward
As always, complex contractual agreements are not a one size fits all situation, all contracts have their own nuances and specificity and individual legal advice should be sought by experienced practitioners prior to entering into any new commercial agreement, particularly franchises.
Disclaimer:
This article is for general understanding and should not be used as a substitute for professional legal advice. Any reliance on the information is strictly at the user's risk, and there is no intention to create a lawyer-client relationship from this general communication.
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10 September 2026
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Our Latest Story
By September 2026 Edition
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By September 2026 Edition
•
3 September 2026
Buying an aircraft can be an exciting milestone, whether it is for business, recreation or private use. But aircraft purchases are not like buying a car or boat. They involve technical records, regulatory requirements and airworthiness considerations that may not be obvious at first glance. Imagine purchasing an aircraft only to later discover it is not airworthy. If a buyer assumes the right checks have already been completed, they may be left facing unexpected costs, delays and legal uncertainty after settlement. It is an important reminder that what looks right on the surface may not always tell the full story. A well-presented aircraft is not necessarily compliant, airworthy or free from risk. Why a pre-purchase inspection matters A pre-purchase inspection can help identify issues with the aircraft’s condition, maintenance history and airworthiness before the buyer commits. It can also highlight questions that should be addressed in the sale agreement. The key is knowing what has been checked, what has not been checked, and what protections are in place if something is discovered later. Things to consider before purchasing an aircraft Arrange an independent inspection before committing to the purchase. Review key records , including logbooks, maintenance history and relevant compliance documents. Confirm the aircraft’s airworthiness status rather than relying on assumptions or verbal assurances. Use a written sale agreement that clearly sets out the terms, inclusions and inspection rights. Seek advice before signing , particularly if finance, insurance, ownership structures or regulatory issues are involved. What if problems are discovered after purchase? If issues are discovered after settlement, the buyer’s options will depend on the contract, what was represented before the sale and the nature of the defect. These matters can become complicated quickly, especially where technical aircraft records and regulatory requirements are involved. How CJM Lawyers can help At CJM Lawyers, our aviation law team assists with aircraft sale and purchase agreements, due diligence, ownership structures, finance and security arrangements, leasing, regulatory issues and disputes. If you are thinking about buying an aircraft, we can help you understand the legal considerations before you commit. If you have already purchased an aircraft and something has gone wrong, we can help determine your options and advise on the best way forward. Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. The information may not apply to your circumstances and should not be relied on as a substitute for tailored legal advice. If you need advice, please contact CJM Lawyers to speak with one of our legal professionals.
By September 2026 Edition
•
3 September 2026
September is a timely reminder to pause and ask a simple but important question: does your Will still reflect your life today? For many people, making a Will is one of those important jobs that sits on the “I’ll get to it one day” list. Others may have a Will in place, but it was prepared years ago and has not been reviewed since. The challenge is that life rarely stays the same. Relationships change, families grow, property is bought or sold, businesses evolve, and financial arrangements can become more complex over time. Why reviewing your Will matters A Will is not just a document for later in life. It is an important part of planning ahead and making sure your wishes are clearly recorded. It allows you to decide who should receive your assets, who should administer your estate, and how you would like important personal matters handled. Having a valid and up-to-date Will can also make things much clearer for your loved ones at an already difficult time. It can reduce the risk of confusion about who should make decisions, who should benefit from your estate, and how your wishes should be carried out. When should you review your Will? It may be time to review your Will if you have recently: married, separated or divorced welcomed children or grandchildren bought or sold property started or sold a business moved into a blended family arrangement experienced a significant change in your finances It is also worth checking whether your superannuation nominations, enduring power of attorney and other estate planning documents still work together with your Will. What your Will may not automatically cover One common misconception is that a Will automatically covers everything you own. In reality, assets such as superannuation, jointly owned property, trusts, company interests and life insurance may need separate consideration. Without the right planning, there can be uncertainty, delays, disputes or outcomes that do not reflect what you intended. How CJM Lawyers can help At CJM Lawyers, our Wills and Estates team can help you prepare a new Will, review an existing Will, update your estate planning documents, and consider how your broader arrangements fit together. Whether your circumstances are simple or more complex, we can provide clear, practical guidance to help you plan ahead with confidence and give your loved ones greater peace of mind. Contact our Wills and Estates team today to get started. Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. The information may not apply to your circumstances and should not be relied on as a substitute for tailored legal advice. If you need advice, please contact CJM Lawyers to speak with one of our legal professionals.
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