Running a franchise business today presents a host of challenges—from rising operational costs and complex regulations to staffing shortages and ongoing economic uncertainty. While the recent interest rate cuts have provided some relief, including boosting consumer confidence, much more needs to be done.
At the Franchise Council of Australia (FCA), our mission is to ensure that franchise businesses receive the support they need to thrive, grow, and continue contributing to Australia’s economy. Two key developments are guiding our focus this year:
The National Small Business Strategy, released by the Federal Government, is a significant step forward for small businesses, including franchisees.
The Franchise Industry Awards (FIA), a new initiative designed to recognise excellence in franchising and provide franchisees with a platform to showcase their achievements.
Both initiatives are critical for franchisees and their businesses, and the FCA is working hard to ensure they deliver tangible value for those running Australia’s franchise businesses.
The National Small Business Strategy: Why It Matters for Franchisees
For years, the FCA has advocated for greater recognition of small businesses in government decision-making. The National Small Business Strategy represents an important milestone in this effort.
With 2.6 million small businesses contributing $590 billion to the Australian economy and employing over 5.4 million people, franchising plays a crucial role in this landscape.
We fully support the National Small Business Strategy, as it acknowledges the essential role small businesses play and aims to improve coordination across government levels to create a better operating environment. The strategy offers franchisees:
Better government support: A clear framework ensuring small businesses are considered in decision-making.
Stronger collaboration across levels of government: Streamlined regulations that don’t vary drastically from state to state.
Recognition of the challenges franchisees face: Addressing burdens like compliance requirements and financial pressures that franchisees often face.
This strategy provides a strong foundation, but we believe more needs to be done. We urge all political parties to continue bipartisan support for this strategy, ensuring that policies for small businesses, including franchisees, remain stable and predictable, regardless of changes in government.
We will continue working closely with all levels of government to ensure that the National Small Business Strategy delivers meaningful benefits for franchisees, providing more than just well-intentioned words but practical solutions that allow franchisees to succeed and grow.
Celebrating Franchise Excellence: The Franchise Industry Awards (FIA)
Franchisees work tirelessly to build their businesses, serve customers, and support local communities, often without receiving the recognition they deserve. This is why industry recognition is so important.
The FCA is proud to introduce the Franchise Industry Awards (FIA), an initiative designed to celebrate excellence in franchising and give franchisees an opportunity to highlight their achievements.
The FIA Gala Awards Night, set for 25 June 2025 at the Fullerton Hotel Grand Ballroom in Sydney, will serve as the premier event to acknowledge outstanding accomplishments within the franchise sector.
For franchisees, the FIA offers several key benefits:
Industry Recognition: Being named a finalist or winner celebrates the hard work and success of your franchise, offering invaluable recognition.
Business Credibility: Winning or being nominated for an award enhances your brand reputation, attracting new customers and strengthening relationships with suppliers and partners.
Networking and Growth Opportunities: The event provides franchisees the chance to connect with key industry figures, share insights, and foster relationships that can fuel business growth.
Marketing and Promotion: Finalists and winners will receive exclusive FIA logos to help promote their achievements, giving them a competitive edge in the market.
Importantly, the FIA is open to all franchisees, not just FCA members. We want the awards to truly reflect the entire industry, so we’ve made the event inclusive of non-members, ensuring that the best in franchising are recognized. Early interest from sponsors has been strong, highlighting the excitement surrounding this event.
With limited tables available, we encourage franchisees to secure their 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 get the recognition, support, and policy backing they deserve. Now is the time to engage and take advantage of these opportunities. Whether it’s by leveraging new government support, nominating for the FIA awards, or staying informed on key issues affecting franchising, your involvement makes a difference.
The FCA remains committed to putting franchisees at the forefront of Australia’s small business landscape, both in terms of policy and industry recognition.
Related Topics:
Alibaba Accelerates AI Investment to Transform E-Commerce and Cloud Technologies
Australia’s Business Investment Declines in Q4, Misses Expectations
