The Franchise Council of Australia’s major annual event has been postponed this year due to COVID-19.
While the virus is still a threat, the Federal Government’s three-stage plan to ease restrictions limits gatherings to just 100 people, making it impossible to plan for a conference with hundreds of delegates.
So the National Franchise Convention has been rescheduled and will take place at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 22-24 August 2021.
Mary Aldred, CEO of the Franchise Council of Australia, said “In making this decision, the FCA is also mindful of the capacity of members to attend conventions during these uncertain times, even if restrictions ease further later in the year.”
Franchise Council plans late 2020 events program
However, the peak body is committed to maintaining learning opportunities, and is planning an events program for late 2020.
The program will feature:
- Legal Symposium which will include legal considerations around COVID-19
- Accounting Forum updating key finance and accounting topics, including changes made under government stimulus packages
- Franchisor Forum to consider how to operate a successful franchise business in a COVID-19 world
In addition, the FCA will host a Franchisee Forum to discuss issues of key interest including access to finance, employee relations, a post-COVID-19 road to recovery session, Franchising Code compliance, dispute resolution and mental health. The FCA advisory committee will participate in a panel discussion.
During the coronavirus crisis the FCA has been providing members with regular updates on COVID-19, highlighting online resources and providing access to specialist webinars.
- The FCA reports the awards program will go ahead but as yet has no further details.
UPDATED: This article has been updated to clarify information about the awards program.
