Page 4 - Franchising Code News Today

Friday, June 4, 2021 On 1 June 2021, the Australian Government released amendments to the Franchising Code of Conduct and a number of these have already begun to apply. A summary of when various key changes take effect is set out below.  From 2 June 2021: amendments have taken effect regarding dispute resolution which apply to all disputes notified on or after 2 June 2021 (even if the agreement was entered into before that date). The changes mean there are additional dispute resolut...

Date Time Collective bargaining by small business facilitated by class exemption From today, small businesses, franchisees and fuel retailers can use the ACCC’s class exemption for collective bargaining. This class exemption, which is the first made by the ACCC, will allow collective negotiation without first having to seek ACCC approval. The class exemption applies to businesses and independent contractors who form, or are members of, a bargaining group, and who each had turnover of less tha...

Reforms designed to protect franchisees from unfair conduct in the $154 billion franchising industry will come into effect next month.

- shares Australians may still be in shock over the sudden axing of the Holden brand – and the closure of more than 200 Holden dealerships – but overhauls to franchise laws announced today will make it harder for multinational car companies to close local showrooms and service centres. The changes – which come into force from 1 July 2021 – mean new-car buyers can shop with certainty knowing their local car showroom and service centre can only be shut down in special circumstances. Fu...

One of the country’s biggest gym and health club group’s has become embroiled in a fight with franchisees amid allegations of unconscionable conduct.

Date Time Franchise Disclosure Registry to help restore confidence in sector The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) Bruce Billson has welcomed plans to establish a new mandatory Franchise Disclosure Registry, saying it will provide prospective franchisees with vital information needed prior to entering into a binding franchise agreement. Mr Billson says the national registry, to be released next year, will require franchisors to lodge disclosure documentation abo...

The Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA), in partnership with FCW Lawyers, and supported by the Motor Traders' Association of NSW (MTA NSW) will...

In a major win for consumers and car dealerships across the country, it will now be harder for automotive giants to abandon Australia and leave motorists high and dry.

March 15, 2021 The Morrison government has proposed changes to the franchising code to address the power imbalance between multinational car corporations and family-owned automotive businesses. The reforms would increase penalties for multi-national car companies that breach the Franchising Code of Conduct from $66,000 to $10 million. Such breaches would include changing contracts, poor compensation and breaking promises made under warranties. The Australian Small Business and Family Enterpri...

The Motor Traders' Association of NSW (MTA NSW) and the Motor Traders' Association of Australia (MTAA), describe strengthened regulations announced today...