New powers for ACCC to strengthen franchising

The ACCC can now issue infringement notices of $8,500 for body corporates ($1,700 for individuals and other entities) and seek penalties of up to $51,000 in court for serious breaches of certain code provisions.

“The ACCC welcomes these changes to the Franchising Code as valuable additions to our arsenal. Rogue operators should be on notice that the ACCC can now seek significant penalties for serious breaches of the Code,” ACCC acting chair Dr Michael Schaper said.

“However, these new powers will go unnoticed by the vast majority of franchisors and franchisees who do the right thing.”

The changes introduce a good faith obligation into the code. This obligation requires both parties to a franchise agreement to remain loyal to the contract they have signed.

Acting dishonestly, for an ulterior motive or in a way that undermines or denies the other party the benefits of the contract, would breach the good faith obligation.

“Franchisees and franchisors will still be able to negotiate and make agreements in their own interest but this new obligation requires all parties to be honest and upfront in their dealings,” Dr Schaper said.

The code will also now require increased disclosure prior to parties entering a franchise agreement, greater transparency around the use of marketing funds, and clarity around whether the franchisor or franchisee can operate online.

The ACCC received more than 500 franchising-related complaints last year. Of these, one third related to disclosure matters so the improved disclosure requirements in the code will address a key concern.

“The ACCC will be focusing on particularly serious conduct and, as always, will take a common sense approach to enforcing the Code,” Dr Schaper said.

The new code applies to all franchise systems and franchisees across Australia.