Federal Government review into Franchising Code of Conduct

Federal Minister for Small Business, Brendan O'Connor is conducting a review into the Franchising Code of Conduct, calling for submissions from the franchising sector.
The primary purpose of the review is to verify, after a reasonable implementation period, that the amendments to the Franchising Code of Conduct made in 2008 and 2010 are working as intended.
The review will consider issues including:
Questions of good faith in franchising;
The rights of franchisees at the end of their franchise agreements including recognition for any contribution they have made to building the franchise; and
The operation of the Competition and the Consumer Act 2010 with respect to enforcing the code.
Explaining the significance of franchising in Australia, Minister O'Connor stated "the franchising sector is an important part of Australia's economy"It comprises around 73 000 franchises, with an annual turnover of more than $130 billion and employs more than 400,000 people."
Discussing the review, he added "we undertook to review the amendments to the Franchising Code in 2013, when the last changes were announced in 2010.
"Participation and evidence from the franchising sector would be welcomed and a discussion paper has been drafted to assist people wanting to make submissions to the review."
Experienced franchise operator and small business adviser Alan Wein, an, has been appointed to conduct the review, with Mr O'Connor explaind that Wein "brings a wide variety of talent, skills and experience through an impressive history of personal achievement.
"He has a thorough understanding of the small business sector from his involvement with the Victorian Small Business Advisory Council and has extensive experience in mediation and commercial law, making him ideal to conduct this review."
Submissions close on Friday 15th February 2013
Further information about the review, including details of the 2008 and 2010 amendments to the Code, the discussion paper and the terms of reference is available from

http://bit.ly/WZVH3G