Franchise regulations vary from country to country.
In Australia, the franchise sector is overseen by the Franchising Code of Conduct, a mandatory industry code under the Competition and Consumer Act 2010, (formerly the Trade Practices Act 1974).
It is administered and enforced by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
Regulations affecting franchising in Australia:
- Franchising Code of Conduct
- Oil Code
- Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (supersedes Trade Practices Act 1974)
- Retail Leasing legislation (various states)
- Corporations Act (2001)
- Fair Trading legislation (various states)
- Intellectual Property (IP) legislation (including Copyright)
Of these, only the Franchising Code of Conduct is specific to franchising. All other laws apply to both franchised and non-franchised businesses.
Learn more about franchise regulations here.