A bright future for franchising in 2025

future franchising 2025
Jay Westbury, CEO of the Franchise Council of Australia. (Source: LinkedIn)

As we look at the year ahead, the Franchise Council of Australia (FCA) is determined to build on our foundations and deliver real value for members while ensuring that franchising continues to thrive as a vital driver of Australia’s economy.

The FCA has assembled a  talented team of dedicated people who bring significant experience and expertise in their particular area of responsibility and we are embracing the opportunities before us for a year of collaboration, progress, and innovation.

Governance and accountability: strengthening the foundation

The FCA has undertaken a comprehensive review of its operations, led by myself and the team and informed by member feedback. Together, we have identified areas for improvement and implemented significant reforms to ensure robust governance and financial transparency.

Under the board’s direction, we have introduced enhanced cash flow monitoring and strengthened financial oversight to improve decision-making. Monthly financial reports are now shared promptly with the board, reflecting our commitment to accountability. These changes demonstrate the collaborative effort to rebuild trust and position the FCA as a well-governed organisation that delivers for its members.

Elevating member engagement and events

Listening to members drives everything we do. Member feedback has shaped our engagement program, ensuring that it reflects the diverse needs of our members across the franchising community.

For 2025, we are rolling out a dynamic events calendar designed to deliver maximum value. Key initiatives include:

  • Franchise Industry Awards (FIA): a national celebration of excellence in franchising, taking place in Sydney on 25 June, alongside the Franchise Forum, which will focus on learning and development.
  • National Franchising Convention (NFC25): returning to Melbourne in October, this event will feature the Hall of Fame Gala, a legal symposium, and multi-franchisee sessions, offering a platform to celebrate and share success.

These events, alongside state-based initiatives, online workshops, and new podcast series, reflect our shared vision for fostering connections, providing learning opportunities, and recognising excellence within the sector.

Advocacy and policy: representing the sector

Advocacy remains a cornerstone of the FCA’s work, and the collaborative efforts of the board, the management team, and our dedicated committees have positioned us as a strong voice for franchising.

Our agenda for 2025 and throughout the federal election campaign includes engaging with policymakers on key issues such as the proposed licensing regime and advocating for practical solutions that support the growth and sustainability of the sector. The FCA’s leadership, with active contributions from the board and our policy committee, has already achieved significant outcomes, including influencing revisions to the Franchise Code of Conduct.

Workforce development, education, and addressing skills shortages are also high on our list of priorities. In collaboration with members and stakeholders, the FCA will continue to champion initiatives that equip franchising professionals with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving business environment.

Fostering innovation and sustainability

The FCA Board has long recognised the importance of innovation in franchising. Together, we are committed to helping members embrace new opportunities, including sustainable practices that meet growing consumer demand for environmentally friendly business models.

By providing access to resources, partnerships, and expert insights, we aim to empower franchises to stay ahead of industry trends while building resilience for the future.

Team and culture: a united approach

The FCA’s small but dedicated team works tirelessly to deliver exceptional outcomes for members, supported by clear leadership and close collaboration with the board. Together, we have stabilised staffing levels and entrenched a culture of transparency, trust, and inclusivity.

There is now an open line of communication between all staff and leadership, ensuring alignment on goals and priorities. This collaborative structure underpins the FCA’s ability to deliver results that meet and exceed member expectations.

Looking to the future

The FCA is on a clear pathway to success, guided by the collective expertise of our leadership, board, and team. We’ve made great progress, and the steps we’ve taken together provide a solid foundation for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

To our members, thank you for your ongoing trust and support. To those considering joining us, we encourage you to connect with a community committed to helping you achieve your goals. 

With your involvement, we will ensure that 2025 is a transformative year for franchising in Australia.

For more information on our initiatives and membership benefits, visit our website or reach out to our team. Let’s work together to build a bright future for franchising.