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About the register

The Franchise Disclosure Register is a free online register that gives people access to franchising information to help them make better business decisions.

The register is hosted and maintained by the Australian Government. However, all franchise content on the register is published by franchisors.

How franchisees can use the register

If you're thinking about buying a franchised business or are currently a franchisee, use the register to find out information about the franchise system.

If a franchisor is not on the register, it may be a sign they’re not meeting other requirements under the Franchising Code of Conduct. This includes the requirement to act in good faith or disclose important financial information.

If a franchisor is not on the register, you should be careful before handing over any money or signing any documents from them. They are unlikely to be a legitimate franchise system and may even be a scam.

Read our guide about how you can stay protected from scams.

Rules franchisors must follow

Franchisors must have a profile in the register

All existing franchisors must be on the register. If you are not on the register, you must create a profile immediately.

New franchisors must join the register at least 14 days before entering into any franchise agreement.

These rules also apply to master franchisors with 2 or more sub-franchisors.

Franchisors who are still unsure about whether they need to be on the register should seek independent legal advice.

If you should be on the register but aren't, you are in breach of the Franchising Code of Conduct and penalties apply.

Franchisors must publish certain information

Franchisors must publish the following information about your business on the register:

  • your franchise's name
  • the name(s) under which your franchise carries on business in Australia
  • your franchise’s ABN (if you have one)
  • the address of your franchise’s registered office and principal place of business in Australia
  • your franchise’s telephone number and email address
  • your franchise’s ANZSIC division and subdivision
  • any other information required by the Secretary under section 92(4) of the franchising code.

Franchisors can choose to publish a copy of their standard franchise agreement on the register.

Franchisors must confirm their profile each year

After joining the register, all franchisors must confirm the information included in the register each year. Incorrect or changed information must be updated. This makes sure the register includes the most recent and accurate information.

Franchisors must update or confirm the information included in the register before the 14th day of the 5th month following the end of the franchisor’s financial year.

If you do not update the register each year, you are in breach of the Franchising Code of Conduct and penalties may apply.

Example

A franchisor who created a profile on the register uses the Australian financial calendar (1 July to 30 June) as their financial year.

The franchisor must update or confirm the information in the register before 14 November each year. This date is the 14th day of the 5th month following 30 June, the franchisor's end of financial year.

How to access the register

The Franchise Disclosure Register provides instructions on how to:

  • join the register and create a profile
  • update your profile on the register.