Franchise Law Briefing

4 June 2026

• ACCC calls for a stronger Horticulture Code as Fruitico and Fresh Express pay record penalties for alleged breaches
  4 June 2026 • ACCC media releases (Australia)
  The ACCC secured record penalties against WA produce companies Fruitico and Fresh Express for Horticulture Code breaches, underscoring the regulator’s drive for tougher mandatory industry codes and flagging the enforcement posture likely to flow through to Franchising Code compliance.

  Read more →

• ACCC approves Ampol’s acquisition of EG Australia, subject to conditions
  3 June 2026 • ACCC media releases (Australia)
  The ACCC gave conditional approval to Ampol’s acquisition of EG Australia — a major fuel retail franchise network — imposing requirements to address competition concerns that directly affect franchised and licensed service station operators.

  Read more →

• Australia raises minimum wage 4.75%
  2 June 2026 • QSR Media Australia (Australia)
  The national minimum wage will rise 4.75% from 1 July 2026, materially lifting labour costs for franchise systems — especially in QSR, retail and hospitality — once the increase flows through to penalty rates, overtime, superannuation and payroll tax.

  Read more →

• Minimum wage rises 4.75 per cent: How will SMEs fare?
  2 June 2026 • Inside Small Business (Australia)
  COSBOA warns the 4.75% minimum wage rise compounds across overtime, penalty rates, allowances, payroll tax and superannuation, creating serious cost pressures for SME franchisees already contending with low business confidence.

  Read more →

• Collins Foods completes German KFC restaurant acquisition
  2 June 2026 • QSR Media Australia (Australia)
  ASX-listed Collins Foods, Australia’s largest KFC franchisee, completed its acquisition of eight KFC restaurants in Germany from JJ Restaurant GmbH, advancing its international franchise expansion strategy.

  Read more →

• Consumer Express | May 2026 Edition – Lexology
  1 June 2026 • Lexology (Australia)
  This legal analysis examines the Franchising Code of Conduct’s regulatory framework and notes that while franchisees hold various Code protections, ongoing compliance and enforcement issues remain front-of-mind for the sector.

  Read more →

• Peter Warren’s acquisition of Wakeling Automotive sites requires Phase 2 review
  2 June 2026 • ACCC media releases (Australia)
  The ACCC escalated Peter Warren’s proposed acquisition of 30 new car dealership sites to a Phase 2 merger review, signalling heightened competition scrutiny in the automotive dealer and franchise sector.

  Read more →

• How Australian Franchise Owners Are Being Targeted by SMS Scams — and What to Do About It
  3 June 2026 • Business Franchise Australia (Australia)
  Australian franchise owners face escalating SMS scam threats that exploit routine operational messages such as supplier reminders and bank updates, making it essential for franchisors to roll out system-wide cyber-security protocols.

  Read more →

Minerva Law — Specialist Franchise Lawyers •
minervalaw.com.au

The post Franchise & Competition Law Briefing — 4 June 2026 appeared first on Minerva Law.

Franchise Law Briefing (26/05/2026) — last 2 months only

• ASBFEO marks 10 years of assistance and advocacy for Australia’s small and family businesses as Bruce Billson bids farewell
  Date: 2026-03-10
  Source/Jurisdiction: ASBFEO (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: ASBFEO celebrates a decade of supporting small and family businesses, highlighting its role in advocating for fairer practices and resolving disputes.
  Link/Citation: https://www.asbfeo.gov.au/media-centre/media-releases/asbfeo-marks-10-years-assistance-and-advocacy-australias-small-and
• ASBFEO calls for improvements to enterprise environment to enable small business success
  Date: 2026-03-02
  Source/Jurisdiction: ASBFEO (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: The Ombudsman calls for practical measures in the 2026-27 Budget aimed at reducing barriers faced by small businesses.
  Link/Citation: https://www.asbfeo.gov.au/media-centre/media-releases/asbfeo-calls-improvements-enterprise-environment-enable-small-business
• Recognise enterprising women in small and family business by removing bias and barriers
  Date: 2026-03-05
  Source/Jurisdiction: ASBFEO (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: The Ombudsman addresses the barriers women face in small business, calling for policies that adapt to their unique challenges.
  Link/Citation: https://www.asbfeo.gov.au/media-centre/media-releases/recognise-enterprising-women-small-and-family-business-removing-bias
• Controversial CGT reforms face billboard protests, academic critique
  Date: 2026-05-25
  Source/Jurisdiction: Inside Small Business (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: Upcoming CGT reforms have sparked criticism for potentially harming businesses and productivity, inciting widespread pushback.
  Link/Citation: https://insidesmallbusiness.com.au/finance/controversial-cgt-reforms-face-billboard-protests-academic-critique

This briefing highlights key developments in Australian Franchising Law. Data processed on 26/05/2026, 10:01:49 pm.

The post Franchise & Competition Law Briefing – 26/05/2026 appeared first on Minerva Law.

Franchise Law Briefing (12/05/2026) — last 2 months only

• ASBFEO marks 10 years of assistance and advocacy for Australia’s small and family businesses as Bruce Billson bids farewell
  Date: 2026-03-10
  Source/Jurisdiction: ASBFEO (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: The ASBFEO marked a decade of advocacy and support for small and family businesses, focusing on fairer regulations and dispute resolution.
  Link/Citation: [ASBFEO Celebration](https://www.asbfeo.gov.au/media-centre/media-releases/asbfeo-marks-10-years-assistance-and-advocacy-australias-small-and)
• ASBFEO calls for improvements to enterprise environment to enable small business success
  Date: 2026-03-02
  Source/Jurisdiction: ASBFEO (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: The ASBFEO urged the Federal Government to implement targeted measures to reduce costs and enhance the operating environment for small businesses.
  Link/Citation: [ASBFEO Recommendations](https://www.asbfeo.gov.au/media-centre/media-releases/asbfeo-calls-improvements-enterprise-environment-enable-small-business)
• Music licensing is shifting from a legal obligation to a brand virtue
  Date: 2026-05-12
  Source/Jurisdiction: OneMusic Australia (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: A significant percentage of consumers are unaware that playing music commercially requires licensing, indicating a shift in perceptions.
  Link/Citation: [Music Licensing](https://insidesmallbusiness.com.au/management/music-licensing-is-shifting-from-a-legal-obligation-to-a-brand-virtue)
• Instant asset write-off for SMEs to be in Budget
  Date: 2026-05-11
  Source/Jurisdiction: Inside Small Business (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: The instant asset write-off scheme for SMEs remains a temporary measure, affecting small businesses’ financial planning.
  Link/Citation: [Instant Asset Write-off](https://insidesmallbusiness.com.au/finance/instant-asset-write-off-for-smes-to-be-in-budget)
• Family and business trusts could soon have to pay more tax
  Date: 2026-05-11
  Source/Jurisdiction: Inside Small Business (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: Proposals may raise taxes on family and business trusts, impacting financial strategies for many Australian families.
  Link/Citation: [Trusts Tax Proposal](https://insidesmallbusiness.com.au/finance/family-and-business-trusts-could-soon-have-to-pay-more-tax)
• ASBFEO calls for changes to unfair contract terms protections
  Date: 2026-03-10
  Source/Jurisdiction: ASBFEO (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: The ASBFEO advocates for an extension of protections against unfair trading practices, especially for small business franchises.
  Link/Citation: [Unfair Contract Terms](https://www.asbfeo.gov.au/media-centre/media-releases/asbfeo-calls-improvements-enterprise-environment-enable-small-business)

This briefing highlights key developments in Australian Franchising Law. Data processed on 12/05/2026, 10:02:04 pm.

The post Franchise & Competition Law Briefing – 12/05/2026 appeared first on Minerva Law.

Franchise Law Briefing (05/05/2026) — last 2 months only

• SMEs on a ‘defensive footing’ after third RBA rate hike this year
  Date: 2026-05-05
  Source/Jurisdiction: Inside Small Business (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: Businesses need certainty to invest in their people, and right now, they’re not getting it.
  Link/Citation: [Link](https://insidesmallbusiness.com.au/management/government-policies/smes-on-a-defensive-footing-after-third-rba-rate-hike-this-year)
• SMEs urged to register their branded SMS before July
  Date: 2026-05-04
  Source/Jurisdiction: Inside Small Business (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: Branded sender IDs allow businesses and organisations to clearly identify themselves when sending messages.
  Link/Citation: [Link](https://insidesmallbusiness.com.au/management/smes-urged-to-register-their-branded-sms-before-july)
• Australia Post hikes parcel surcharges to cover soaring energy costs
  Date: 2026-05-01
  Source/Jurisdiction: Inside Small Business (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: This only applies to contract customers sending parcels, with no impact on MyPost Business or retail customers.
  Link/Citation: [Link](https://insidesmallbusiness.com.au/finance/australia-post-hikes-parcel-surcharges-to-cover-soaring-energy-costs)
• Rising costs, labour shortages, and regulatory pressure are testing Australia’s QSR operators despite strong market growth.
  Date: 2026-04-10
  Source/Jurisdiction: QSR Media (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: These challenges are affecting the fast food sector as they navigate operational pressures.
  Link/Citation: [Link](https://qsrmedia.com.au/research/in-focus/rising-costs-labour-shortages-pressure-australias-qsr-sector)

This briefing highlights key developments in Australian Franchising Law. Data processed on 05/05/2026, 10:02:18 pm.

The post Franchise & Competition Law Briefing – 05/05/2026 appeared first on Minerva Law.

The post Ishani Perera appeared first on Minerva Law.

Franchise Law Briefing (28/04/2026) — last 2 months only

• Harvey Norman franchisor pays penalty for alleged breach of franchising code
  Date: 2026-04-24
  Source/Jurisdiction: ACCC (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: Harvey Norman’s franchisor was penalised for not keeping an updated profile on the Franchise Disclosure Register, affecting transparency.
  Link/Citation: https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/harvey-norman-franchisor-pays-penalty-for-alleged-breach-of-franchising-code
• ACCC investigating diesel supply conduct in regional and rural Australia
  Date: 2026-03-18
  Source/Jurisdiction: ACCC (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: The ACCC started an investigation into major fuel suppliers over suspected anti-competitive practices affecting diesel access.
  Link/Citation: https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/accc-investigating-diesel-supply-conduct-in-regional-and-rural-australia
• Australian Government releases response to Fairness in Franchising report – Franchising – Australia
  Date: 2026-04-01
  Source/Jurisdiction: ACCC (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: The Australian Government addressed the Fairness in Franchising report, highlighting strengthened ACCC powers to enforce unfair contract term laws.
  Link/Citation: https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/australian-government-releases-response-to-fairness-in-franchising-report
• New merger control regime off to positive start
  Date: 2026-04-09
  Source/Jurisdiction: ACCC (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: The ACCC’s new merger control regime is successfully operating, approving 91% of notifications promptly and monitoring competition.
  Link/Citation: https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/new-merger-control-regime-off-to-positive-start

This briefing highlights key developments in Australian Franchising Law. Data processed on 28/04/2026, 10:02:01 pm.

The post Franchise & Competition Law Briefing – 28/04/2026 appeared first on Minerva Law.

The post Daniel Kim appeared first on Minerva Law.

Franchise Law Briefing (21/04/2026) — last 2 months only

• ACCC granted leave to intervene in Epic v Apple proceedings
  Date: 2026-04-21
  Source/Jurisdiction: ACCC (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: The ACCC has been granted leave to intervene in the Epic Games, Inc v Apple Inc proceedings, which involve significant competition law issues related to digital service markets in Australia.
  Link/Citation: https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/accc-granted-leave-to-intervene-in-epic-v-apple-proceedings
• IAG’s acquisition of RAC Insurance requires Phase 2 review
  Date: 2026-04-17
  Source/Jurisdiction: ACCC (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: The ACCC has decided to conduct a Phase 2 assessment of Insurance Australia Group’s proposed acquisition of RAC Insurance due to potential competition concerns.
  Link/Citation: https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/iags-acquisition-of-rac-insurance-requires-phase-2-review
• ACCC investigating retailers making concerning Black Friday claims
  Date: 2026-04-14
  Source/Jurisdiction: ACCC (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: The ACCC is investigating several retailers for potentially misleading claims during Black Friday sales, indicating a focus on consumer protections during high-profile sales events.
  Link/Citation: https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/accc-investigating-retailers-making-concerning-black-friday-claims
• ACCC decides MicroStar’s acquisition of Konvoy requires Phase 2 review
  Date: 2026-04-02
  Source/Jurisdiction: ACCC (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: The ACCC has determined that MicroStar’s acquisition of Konvoy requires a detailed Phase 2 review due to concerns about its impact on competition in keg pooling services.
  Link/Citation: https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/accc-decides-microstar%E2%80%99s-acquisition-of-konvoy-requires-phase-2-review
• OPSM and Laubman & Pank franchisor pays penalty for alleged breach of Franchising Code
  Date: 2026-03-30
  Source/Jurisdiction: ACCC (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: Luxottica, the franchisor of OPSM, was penalised for failing to maintain an up-to-date profile on the Franchise Disclosure Register, emphasizing the importance of compliance for franchisors.
  Link/Citation: https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/opsm-and-laubman-pank-franchisor-pays-penalty-for-alleged-breach-of-franchising-code
• ACCC monitors fuel excise cut, fuel surcharges and fuel price movements
  Date: 2026-04-01
  Source/Jurisdiction: ACCC (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: The ACCC is overseeing the implementation of fuel excise cuts and scrutinising fuel prices in light of recent government announcements, ensuring consumer protections are upheld.
  Link/Citation: https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/accc-monitors-fuel-excise-cut-fuel-surcharges-and-fuel-price-movements
• ACCC calling on industry to explain widely varying fuel prices
  Date: 2026-03-13
  Source/Jurisdiction: ACCC (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: The ACCC is urging fuel retailers to justify rapid and varying fuel price increases observed across Australian cities, monitoring potential breaches of consumer law.
  Link/Citation: https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/accc-calling-on-industry-to-explain-widely-varying-fuel-prices

This briefing highlights key developments in Australian Franchising Law. Data processed on 21/04/2026, 10:01:56 pm.

The post Franchise & Competition Law Briefing – 21/04/2026 appeared first on Minerva Law.

Franchise Law Briefing (14/04/2026) — last 2 months only

• ACCC Issues Penalty for Franchise Disclosure Register Breach
  Date: 2026-03-30
  Source/Jurisdiction: MST Lawyers (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: The ACCC issued a $19,800 fine to Luxottica Franchising Australia for not maintaining an up-to-date Franchise Disclosure Register, crucial for transparency.
  Link/Citation: https://www.mst.com.au/blog/accc-franchise-register-breach/
• ACCC investigating diesel supply conduct in regional and rural Australia
  Date: 2026-03-19
  Source/Jurisdiction: ACCC (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: The ACCC is investigating potential anti-competitive behaviour by major fuel suppliers affecting diesel availability for independent wholesalers in regional areas.
  Link/Citation: https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/accc-investigating-diesel-supply-conduct-in-regional-and-rural-australia
• New merger control regime off to positive start
  Date: 2026-04-09
  Source/Jurisdiction: ACCC (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: The ACCC’s new merger control regime is proving effective, approving 91% of acquisitions within the 20-day target in its first three months.
  Link/Citation: https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/new-merger-control-regime-off-to-positive-start
• Proposed New Laws on Unfair Trading Practices – What Businesses (and Franchisors) Need to Know
  Date: 2026-04-08
  Source/Jurisdiction: MST Lawyers (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: Amendments to the Australian Consumer Law targeting unfair trading practices have been proposed, set to take effect on 1 July.
  Link/Citation: https://www.mst.com.au/blog/unfair-trading-practices-australia/
• RBA Card Surcharge Ban: What Businesses Need to Know
  Date: 2026-04-02
  Source/Jurisdiction: MST Lawyers (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: The RBA announced a ban on card surcharges for eftpos, Visa, and Mastercard from 1 October 2026, affecting cost recovery for businesses.
  Link/Citation: https://www.mst.com.au/blog/rba-card-surcharge-ban-australia/

This briefing highlights key developments in Australian Franchising Law. Data processed on 14/04/2026, 10:01:32 pm.

The post Franchise & Competition Law Briefing – 14/04/2026 appeared first on Minerva Law.

Franchise Law Briefing (09/04/2026) — last 2 months only

• Franchising Code of Conduct review to investigate $170 billion sector
  Date: 2026-04-06
  Source/Jurisdiction: Smart Company (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: An independent review of the Franchising Code of Conduct has been announced, focusing on fairness in the $170 billion franchising sector.
  Link/Citation: [Smart Company](https://www.smartcompany.com.au/business-advice/franchising/franchising-franchise-code-of-conduct-review)
• Harvey Norman franchisor pays penalty for alleged breach of franchising code
  Date: 2026-03-30
  Source/Jurisdiction: ACCC (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: Harvey Norman’s Queensland franchisor has paid a penalty for not updating the Franchise Disclosure Register, compromising transparency for prospective franchisees.
  Link/Citation: [ACCC Media Release](https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/harvey-norman-franchisor-pays-penalty-for-alleged-breach-of-franchising-code)
• ACCC decides MicroStar’s acquisition of Konvoy requires Phase 2 review
  Date: 2026-04-02
  Source/Jurisdiction: ACCC (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: MicroStar Logistics’ acquisition of Konvoy will undergo a Phase 2 review due to concerns it could substantially lessen competition in keg pooling services.
  Link/Citation: [ACCC Media Release](https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/accc-decides-microstar%E2%80%99s-acquisition-of-konvoy-requires-phase-2-review)
• ACCC monitors fuel excise cut, fuel surcharges and fuel price movements
  Date: 2026-04-01
  Source/Jurisdiction: ACCC (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: The ACCC warns fuel retailers to pass on fuel excise cuts promptly and is monitoring the impact of fuel surcharges on consumers.
  Link/Citation: [ACCC Media Release](https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/accc-monitors-fuel-excise-cut-fuel-surcharges-and-fuel-price-movements)
• ACCC allegations against Luxottica for breaches of Franchising Code
  Date: 2026-03-30
  Source/Jurisdiction: ACCC (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: Luxottica, operating OPSM and Laubman & Pank, paid a $19,800 penalty for failing to update the Franchise Disclosure Register.
  Link/Citation: [ACCC Media Release](https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/opsm-and-laubman-pank-franchisor-pays-penalty-for-alleged-breach-of-franchising-code)
• Franchise Documentation & Agreements Lawyers AU
  Date: 2026-03-31
  Source/Jurisdiction: MST Lawyers (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: MST Lawyers provides expert legal support for franchise documentation and compliance with the Franchising Code of Conduct.
  Link/Citation: [MST Lawyers](https://www.mst.com.au/our-services/franchise-law/franchise-documentation-and-agreements)
• Franchising Code Update: What Business Owners Should Know
  Date: 2026-03-31
  Source/Jurisdiction: MST Lawyers (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: A new compilation of the Franchising Code of Conduct has been released, impacting disclosure requirements for franchisors.
  Link/Citation: [MST Lawyers](https://www.mst.com.au/franchising-code-of-conduct-new-compilation-just-released)
• New merger control regime off to positive start
  Date: 2026-03-30
  Source/Jurisdiction: ACCC (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: The ACCC reports positive initial performance data from the new merger control regime, enhancing competition regulation.
  Link/Citation: [ACCC Media Release](https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/new-merger-control-regime-off-to-positive-start)
• Independent review of Franchising Code of Conduct to improve small business protections
  Date: 2026-03-31
  Source/Jurisdiction: ACCC (Australia)
  Key Takeaway: The ACCC announces an independent review of the Franchising Code of Conduct to enhance protections for small business franchisees.
  Link/Citation: [ACCC Media Release](https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/independent-review-of-franchising-code-of-conduct-to-improve-small-business-protections)

This briefing highlights key developments in Australian Franchising Law. Data processed on 09/04/2026, 2:11:33 pm.

The post Franchise & Competition Law Briefing – 09/04/2026 appeared first on Minerva Law.