This page contains brief descriptions of organisations that provide a range of information and services for businesses and franchises in particular.

Business Enterprise Centres

Business Enterprise Centres are a network involving business enterprises, government, professional associations and other organisations. The purpose of this body is to provide job creation and growth of small business. For more information:
Website: www.beca.org.au

Alternately, contact the Department of State and Regional Development on:
Telephone: 1300 650 058
Website: www.smallbiz.nsw.gov.au

Australian Competition and Consumer Commission

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) manages the Franchising Code of Conduct. The code has been designed to provide enhanced protection for those entering into, renewing or extending franchise agreements, primarily by providing better information on which to make the decision whether or not to invest in a franchised business. This is a mandatory code and must be complied with by all franchise systems.

The ACCC also investigates complaints between franchisees and franchisers. For further details, or for a copy of the Code, contact the ACCC:

Telephone: (02) 9230 9133 or 1300 302 502
Website: www.accc.gov.au
Address: Level 7, Angel Place, 123 Pitt St (GPO Box 3648) Sydney 2000.

Office of the Mediation Adviser

The Office of the Mediation Adviser (OMA) has been established and funded by the Office of Small Business in the Federal Department of Employment Workplace Relations and Small Business for assistance in resolving franchise disputes. For further information contact them on:
Telephone: 1800 150 667
Website: www.mediationadviser.com.au
Postal Address: Level 2, Suite 205, 370 Pitt Street, Sydney NSW 2000

The Franchise Council of Australia Ltd

The Franchise Council of Australia Ltd (FCA) is the peak body for the franchise sector in Australia, representing franchisees, franchisors and service providers to the sector. Membership is voluntary, and is open to any organisation or individual involved in the franchise sector. For further information, contact them on:
Telephone: 1300 669 030
Website: www.franchise.org.au
Postal Address: PO Box 2195, Malvern East VIC 3145

Reference websites

Australian Securities & Investments Commission
Area Consultative Committees
Australian WorkPlace