The Journey Begins
Please note that the website schedule is the least up to date, last updated 1st October.
If you are attending conference, please refer to the event app. Login details have been sent to your inbox from “Entergy” (check spam) and a final push will be sent prior the beginning of Day 1.
This year’s event offers more flexibility than ever before, including the introduction of four specialised conferences on Day 1, tailored to different sectors of franchising. From legal and financial deep dives to marketing strategies and multi-unit growth, NFC 2025 provides the opportunity to tailor your experience and connect with peers facing the same challenges and opportunities.
Each “The Works” or “One Day Pass” ticket will be specified to one of the 4 conferences on day 1- The Journey Begins.
The Legal Symposium offers franchisors, franchisees, and legal professionals the chance to deep-dive into critical legal matters impacting the franchise sector. Topics will include franchise agreements, compliance, dispute resolution, and emerging regulations. Stay ahead of the curve with expert-led discussions and practical advice on managing legal risks within your franchise system.
This year’s the Legal Symposium MC is Louise Wolf
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Regulatory State of Nation UpdateDiscussion including: FCA activities, key Code issues and is the Code fit for purpose, ACCC guidance material, unfair training practices, co-regulatory model/licencing model or other alternatives (FAMO), ACL provisions in Code.Facilitated by: Stephen Giles – Partner, Norton Rose FulbrightPresented by: Jay Westbury – CEO, FCA; Sean O’Donnell – Partner, HWLE Lawyers; Raynia Theodore – Principal, MST Lawyers
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ACCC Update for Franchise SystemsThe Deputy Chair of the ACCC will provide an update on key regulatory developments over the last 12 months relevant to franchise networks in Australia. The session will then move to a facilitated Q&A session, with questions posed by Alicia Hill and questions taken from the floor.Facilitated by: Alicia Hill – Principal, Sladen LegalPresented by: Mick Keogh – Deputy Chair, ACCC
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Effective marketing that doesn’t invite regulator interestThe recent regulatory changes and regulator priorities, coupled with data driven digital marketing and heavy use of suppliers, requires franchisors to have a new approach to marketing in its practices, procedures and network documentation. This session will explain the changes, discuss marketing ‘hot topics’ for franchise networks (such as use of AI generated content, cookies and tracking pixels, product and individual geolocation tracking, marketing to minors, maintaining control and security over customer data), and valuable practical tips from the lived experience of in-house counsel.Facilitated by: Louise Wolf – Principal, MST LawyersPresented by: Bronwyn Furse – Partner, Thomson Geer, Courtenay Willis – Chief Counsel, Nando’sData breaches and cyber incident responseAre you prepared for a cyber incident? Do you have a data breach response plan? Do you know who to notify and when? What is the current state of the law and what are the trend? How is AI driving cyber incidents and those impacted? This session will explore some examples and give some practical tips to assist you be prepared for a cyber incident.Facilitated by: Sean O’Donnell – Partner, HWLE LawyersPresented by: Andrew Miers – Partner, HWLE Lawyers, Sonia Sharma – Partner, Maddocks
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Employment law: Essential updates and best practice for franchisorsAs the employment law landscape continues to evolve, franchisors face increasing scrutiny and responsibility under the Fair Work Act and related legislation. This session will be a discussion of best practice approaches to the termination of franchise agreements in cases of employment law breaches, ensuring compliance while minimising legal and reputational risks. We will consider and discuss the proactive steps that franchisors are taking to mitigate exposure under the franchisor liability provisions of the Fair Work Act.Facilitated by: Maija Kerry – Partner, Norton Rose FulbrightPresented by: Melinda Bell – Partner, Norton Rose FulbrightManaging IP in the context of a franchised businessIntellectual property is the backbone of a successful franchise business and is critical to the value, longevity, and success of a franchise network. Join our expert panel of intellectual property specialists as we unpack how a franchisor can best safeguard its intellectual property at every stage of the franchise journey – from inception, during periods of growth and expansion, through to M&A and exit transactions. We will also hear insights from our panel about common challenges and enforcement issues in a franchising context.Facilitated by: Mira Martin – Senior Associate, MaddocksPresented by: Elizabeth Ireland – Special Counsel, Maddocks; Joanna Lawrence – Partner, Ashurst; Kerry Awerbuch – Partner, Thomson Geer
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New Merger Approval LawsThe merger approval session will cover the following:– What acquisitions need to be notified to the ACCC? – Notification thresholds, Acquisitions of minority interests – concept of ‘control’, Ministerial power to determine classes of acquisitions to be notifiable, Notification waiver process.– How to deal with below-the-thresholds acquisitions?– What are the consequences of the suspensory effect? Waiting periods, Penalties for gun jumping, Risks associated with DD and integration planning– What are the steps of the review process? Impact on transaction timeline, Notification forms, Acquisitions Register, Filing fees– What is the substantive test for assessing an acquisition’s effect on competition?– What is the process for requesting a review of an ACCC decision from the Competition Tribunal?Facilitated by: Greg Hipwell – Partner, MaddocksPresented by: Wolfgang Hellmann – Partner, Maddocks; Chris Whelan – Principal, RBB EconomicsEmerging Legal Priorities for General CounselsJoin a candid conversation with senior legal leaders from franchising businesses as they discuss what’s currently occupying their desks. From ESG and regulatory headwinds to data, privacy, and employment trends, this panel offers a dynamic glimpse into the broader legal challenges shaping today’s corporate environments. The session will cover real-world insights, practical concerns, and allow time for audience Q&A.Facilitated by: Ceri Clark, General Counsel, Retail ZooPresented by: Courtenay Willis – Chief Counsel, Nando’s; Tim Hall – Head of Legal, Risk & Strategy, BMW Group Australia; Sarina Mari – General Counsel, Minor DKL
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The ESG Imperative: Sustainable success for franchisorsAs environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations become increasingly central to business strategy and regulatory compliance, franchisors must be equipped to address these evolving demands. We will provide insights into the latest ESG trends affecting the franchise industry including the impact of current geopolitical issues, modern slavery laws and climate reporting obligations. We will also discuss the potential for ESG to drive value and competitive advantage.Facilitated by: Maija Kerry – Partner, Norton Rose FulbrightPresented by: Elisa de Wit – Partner, Norton Rose Fulbright; Abigail McGregor – Partner, Norton Rose FulbrightEnd of term issues on expiry of a franchise agreementThis session will consider a hypothetical scenario where a franchise agreement is due to expire with no right of renewal. We will discuss how the franchisor should prepare for this scenario and what franchisors should consider/implement to properly deal with an expiry of a franchise agreement.Facilitated by: Seva Surmei – Principal, DMAW LawyersPresented by: Sean O’Donnell – Partner, HWLE Lawyers; Cynthia Sica – Partner, SBA Law
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ASBFEO Update – The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman – What we see and insights for franchising
The Ombudsman will showcase a range of small business issues that ASBFEO see through the data and assistance work we undertake and identify useful insights for franchising law.
Facilitated by: Tamra Seaton – Consulting Principal, Keypoint Law
Presented by: Bruce Billson – Australia Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman -
Case UpdateOur two expert speakers will explore a series of recent leading cases in the franchising sector.Facilitated by: Nick Rimington – Partner, Norton Rose FulbrightPresented by: Tony Conaghan – Senior Consultant, Thomson Geer; Melissa Hanbidge – Partner, HWLE Lawyers
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The Multi Franchisee Summit (MFS) is designed for multi-unit franchisees who are looking to optimize operations across multiple locations. This event covers topics like scaling businesses, multi-unit management strategies, operational efficiency, and growth opportunities. Connect with like-minded franchisees and gain practical knowledge to enhance your portfolio’s success and profitability.
Sponsored by Operandio
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Regulatory State of Nation + Deep dive on other issues including November Code Changes, unfair trading practices and co-regulatory/licensing model
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How to uncover the hidden profit pockets to turbo charge your business
Tracey Leak
Ready to uncover untapped opportunities in your business? Join Tracey Leak in this high-energy session where she’ll reveal wild case studies and innovative strategies to identify and unlock hidden profit pockets within your franchise. Learn how to boost your bottom line by tapping into areas you may have overlooked, and discover how small changes can lead to big wins. With real-life examples and actionable insights, Tracey will show you how to turbocharge your business and elevate your profits to new heights. Don’t miss this chance to rethink your approach and supercharge your growth!
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TED EX STYLE – HOT TOPICS – Here from two real life Franchisees on Hot topicsHot Topics: Real-Life Franchisees Share Bold InsightsGet ready for an electrifying session where real-life franchisees take the stage to share their unfiltered experiences on the hot topics shaping the future of franchising. From overcoming operational hurdles to seizing new growth opportunities, these franchise leaders will dive into the issues that matter most—delivering practical insights, fresh perspectives, and innovative solutions straight from the front lines. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear firsthand how franchisees are tackling the challenges of today while preparing for the opportunities of tomorrow.Guests: Caitlin Macumber, Plus Fitness & Nitin Khadalia, Pack & Send
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FIVE Magic Fs for Multi-Unit Franchising – Interactive Session by Jan Timms – Get Smart ServicesBestselling author of The Ultimate Franchising Success Formula and founder of Get Smart Services, Jan Timms (PhD) draws on seven years of rigorous empirical research into franchising success factors, coupled with 25 years of hands-on franchising experience, to bring you this tailored version of her acclaimed FIVE Magic Fs framework – designed specifically for the challenges and opportunities of multi-unit franchising.In this session, you’ll discover:How to replicate success across multiple locations without diluting standardsHow to fuel competitive advantage by leveraging knowledge from within your networkHow to foster a thriving performance culture across all unitsHow to fast-track learning and action so results are achieved quickly and consistentlyThis presentation is for franchisees serious about maximising performance across multiple locations and franchisor team members who want to know how best to support them. Walk away with practical ideas you can put into action immediately, along with the foundations for building long-term multi-unit franchising success.
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Building a High Performance Team Culture with Greg Nathan & Expert PanelJoin Greg Nathan, one of the leading experts in franchisee success, alongside a dynamic panel of industry leaders, as they explore the essential strategies for building and maintaining high-performing teams within your franchise. This interactive session will cover everything from team dynamics and leadership to effective communication and culture-building, with real-world insights from experienced franchisees. Whether you’re managing a single unit or multiple locations, gain valuable takeaways on how to create a motivated, cohesive team that drives growth and success. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from the experts on what truly makes a franchise team thrive.Panellists: Jarrod Montague, Roll’d; Dan Mesiti, Boost Juice; Rebecca O’Brien, Pack & Send
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1:45pm – 2:05pm2:05pm-2:10pm2:10pm – 2:35pm2:35pm – 2:40pm2:40pm – 2:45pm2:45pm – 2:50pm2:50pm – 3:10pm
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DIVE Deep – Strategies to Grow Your Business Facilitator: Michael Black, Success Tutoring
Panellists: 3 powerhouse franchisees. Larni Miller, Fernwood Fitness; Poolwerx Franchisee, Micheal McGrath, SignaramaJoin Michael as he facilitates a powerful, deep dive into strategies that will drive your franchise growth. This session features a dynamic panel of three powerhouse franchisees from leading brands who will share their proven tactics for success. Learn how to stop micro-managing, step up as a leader, and create a team that works for you—not the other way around. Gain real-world insights and actionable strategies from franchisees who have been there, done that, and achieved remarkable results. This is your chance to learn from the best and unlock the potential for exponential growth in your business. -
AI Interactive Session – Julian Moore
Joined together with the Marketers Network.
Great way to end the day – Live demonstration of current AI – what can be done today and how to do it live. Expect the unexpected! -
Since 2016, the Franchise Accountants Conference (FAN) has brought together the sharpest financial minds in franchising for a day of insights, connections, and practical learning. Now in its 8th edition, FAN continues to be “organised by accountants, for accountants” — with content tailored to the unique financial challenges and opportunities of the franchising sector.
With 80 to 100 attendees each year, FAN is an intimate, high-value event attracting CFOs, Finance Managers, senior brand executives, and public practice accountants from across Australia and New Zealand. Past attendees have represented a who’s who of iconic franchise brands including Pizza Hut, Amber Tiles, Anytime Fitness, Total Tools, Mad Mex, KFC, Signarama, GJ Gardiner Homes, Just Cuts, Kwik Kopy, Bakers Delight, and many more.
As one past delegate put it: “I am impressed by the consistently high standard of informed speakers and relevant topics.” — Samra Tripodi, Former CFO, Plus Fitness
And as Sarah Pan from Amber Tiles said, “FAN is FUN!”
Whether you’re leading the finance function within a franchise brand or advising clients in the franchise space, FAN is your opportunity to hear from industry leaders, share war stories with peers, and stay ahead of regulatory, economic, and operational trends.
Spaces are limited. Join the loyal FAN community and take part in shaping the future of finance in franchising.
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Panellists: Cameron Graf – LegalVision, Darryn McAuliffe – FranData, Jason Gherke – Franchise Advisory Centre, John Dorazio CA – SW PartnersFrom November 2025, franchisors must prove that their agreements give franchisees a reasonable opportunity to make a return on their investment. We’ll unpack the legal obligations, data challenges, and financial realities this creates. With insights from U.S. disclosure practices as a benchmark, this session will help franchisors assess the financial aspects of their franchise opportunity.
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Before you rush into the next big idea, stop and capture what you’ve learned. In this interactive session, participants will create a visual collage of their key insights from the morning sessions. Then, share it with the group — sparking fresh connections, aha moments, and a burst of creativity to carry into the afternoon.
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Robert Cameron (CEO, Wetseal), Sarah Pan (CFO, Amber Tiles), Cheryl Ling (CFO, Jetts Fitness)What really happens when CFOs and CEOs step into the boardroom — or lead their teams through the numbers that matter? In this candid spotlight session, finance leaders Sarah Pan, Cheryl Ling, and Robert Cameron share their experiences of reporting to boards, advising on strategy, and managing people behind the spreadsheets. Expect sharp insights, war stories, and practical lessons from the frontlines of financial leadership.
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Small Business Ombudsman: Hear from Hon. Bruce Bilson on the role of ASBFEO
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Graeme Goldman CA (Executive Chairman Clark Rubber)Graeme Goldman CA, Executive Chairman of Clark Rubber, has led some of Australia’s most recognisable retail brands through cycles of change and disruption. His message? Stop obsessing over this quarter’s results and start leading with a decade in mind. In this session, Graeme shares lessons from his long career in retail and franchising, revealing how long-term vision transforms leadership, decision-making, and growth.
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Sonia Schwabsky (CEO, Kwik Kopy Australia)Franchisees are asking tougher questions about how their marketing dollars are spent — and regulators are too. With new Franchise Code requirements for Special Purpose Funds, transparency isn’t optional, it’s essential. Sonia Schwabsky, CEO of Kwik Kopy Australia, cuts through the complexity to show how clear management and reporting of marketing funds can build trust, avoid disputes, and fuel smarter campaigns.
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Peter Knight & Kate Groom – Franchise Accounting & TaxFor many business owners, the biggest headache isn’t running the shop — it’s making sense of the numbers behind it. From clunky accounting tech to confusion over cash flow and compliance, franchisees often struggle to turn financial data into real understanding. Drawing on their deep experience supporting franchise networks, Peter Knight and Kate Groom from Franchise Accounting & Tax shine a light on where franchisees get stuck, what franchisors can do to support them, and how better systems can ease the pain. They’ll also tackle the critical — and too often overlooked — question of pre-franchise financial due diligence, sharing lessons learned from when the numbers weren’t checked closely enough.
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Rick Hemphill CA – SW Accountants, Daniel Thexton CA – Collective WellnessWill technology replace accountants—or empower them to deliver more value than ever before? In this dynamic session, Rick Hemphill and Daniel Thexton unpack the tools accountants are already using to streamline work, boost accuracy, and drive insights. Looking ahead, they’ll discuss the powerful role of AI, automation, and data in reshaping client service and business strategy, and how you can stay ahead of the curve.
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Paul McFarlane, Responder CareIn the world of first responders, silence can be deadly — and the same is true in business. Paul McFarlane, drawing on his experience as an ambulance chaplain, shares sobering stories of what happens when people suffer in silence, and how leaders can break the cycle. Expect a confronting but vital session that challenges you to rethink how your organisation approaches mental health before it’s too late.
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Every franchisor faces it: the scramble for cash at startup, the grind of managing profitability in growth, the tech and reporting headaches of maturity, and the tough calls when it’s time to transition or exit. This highly interactive session takes an unflinching look at the financial challenges that follow franchisors through every stage of the lifecycle — and how accountants can help them survive, adapt, and thrive along the way.
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Join fellow marketing professionals at the Franchise Marketers Network (FMN), where you’ll gain actionable insights on the latest trends, digital innovations, and strategic marketing tactics tailored for the franchise industry. This event fosters networking and knowledge sharing, providing you with the tools to elevate your franchise marketing efforts and stay ahead in an increasingly competitive landscape.
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Keynote – LAM Best Practice, trends & B2B Franchise Development with Taylor Fielding – CEO, TFM DigitalFor franchise marketers, LAM is where strategy meets the street. Taylor Fielding (TFM Digital) breaks down best practice and current trends that matter to marketers today, then dives into how marketing fuels B2B development pipelines. A panel with peers will bring those ideas to life, sharing what’s working, what’s changing, and how marketers can better equip franchisees and head office teams alike. If you’re chasing marketing outcomes that translate directly into brand and revenue growth, this session is designed for you.Followed by Q&A PanelPanellists: Alexandra Laurence, RFG, Poolwerx, InXpress, Jetts, Quest
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Unlocking the Power of Special Purpose Funds: Compliance and Best Practice under the Franchising CodeJoel Marshall, Hitch Advisory, Couple of Marketing clients – HitchSpecial Purpose Funds are a critical component of many franchise systems, enabling networks to pool resources for marketing, advertising, and other collective initiatives. However, the operation and management of these funds are subject to strict requirements under the Australian Franchising Code of Conduct. This session will demystify the legal and practical obligations around Special Purpose Funds, offering marketing managers and franchisors clear guidance on compliance, transparency, and best practice. Join us to ensure your franchise system leverages these funds effectively while meeting all regulatory expectations.
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How smart distribution adds marketing power, not headcountDean Maidment – TaguchiHands up if your customer communications are actually moving the needle on local area marketing… If you’re hesitating — you’re not alone.Hear real life examples on how some aussie brands are handing the marketing keys to local area and winning!
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Marcel Lal with CEO/C Suite ExecutivesFrom board papers to market share, this candid conversation gets to the heart of what senior leadership expects from marketing today. Host Marcel Lal leads a high-level discussion with Richard Thame, Jay Westbury, and Selina Bridges on the decisions that move the needle: what to measure, how to present ROI, when to prioritise brand over short-term sales, and how to keep marketing central to strategy in a tightening economy. Expect practical guidance on building executive trust, aligning spend to growth levers, and reporting that stands up in the boardroom. Walk away with a clearer blueprint for credible marketing governance—and the language that secures “yes”.Panellists: Richard Thame – FCA Chair, Jay Westbury FCA CEO, Selina Bridge CEO KX Pilates
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VARIOUS TOPICAL ROUNDTABLES4 X 20 Min session of various topicsCheck the App for topics to choose from
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Impacting your brand performance with marketing fundamentalsFacilitator: Glenn WalfordPanellists: Tom Elliot – Hogs Breath, John Dwyer – The Institute of Wow, Tiffany English – Access Offshoring, Anya Haywood – Seal A FridgeFundamentals: Building your audience (Strategies), Messaging, Impactful marketing asset creation, Engaging, Activating,Managing it allJoin Glenn Walford and a panel of franchise leaders as they unpack the fundamentals of marketing success — building your audience, creating impactful messaging and assets, and activating strategies that drive brand performance at scale.
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AI Interactive Session – Julian Moore
Joined together with the Marketers Network.
Great way to end the day – Live demonstration of current AI – what can be done today and how to do it live. Expect the unexpected! -
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