The Franchise Disclosure Register is free to access

The Register is freely available to the public. The primary purpose is to improve franchisor transparency and access to disclosure information and help franchise buyers make decisions before entering into a franchise agreement.

Search the Franchise Disclosure Register

Public users and franchise buyers can search the Register and review franchisor profiles.

The Search option allows you to search for a franchisor name, trading name, ABN or description of the business. If you have trouble finding a business, include commas (“) around the name, for example “ABC”.

The filter option allows you to search for Disclosure Documents that a franchisor may have published, a business's industry divisions and subdivisions, and the states or territories where the franchisor currently operates or is intending to expand.

Do your research

If you are interested in buying a franchise, you should read the Information Statement for prospective franchisees. It is important that you learn about franchising, conduct due diligence, get professional advice and consider other franchise options.

Other important information about franchising and helpful resources can be found at www.business.gov.au/franchising and www.accc.gov.au/buyingafranchise.

The Register will operate in addition to existing disclosure requirements under the Franchising Code of Conduct. For example, it’s still important to ask a franchisor for their complete Disclosure Document.

Complaints and disputes

If you have concerns about a franchisor’s compliance with the Franchising Code of Conduct, you can report the alleged breach to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) via the online complaint form.

The ACCC cannot provide legal advice but can provide information about the Code and resolving disputes www.accc.gov.au/business/industry-codes/franchising-code-of-conduct/what-the-accc-does-in-franchising.

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) can assist in the resolution of franchising disputes. Visit the ASBFEO website, email info@asbfeo.gov.au or call 1300 650 460.