The Journey Develops
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.
Day Two kicks off with high-impact sessions that set the stage for the days ahead. Delegates can expect a mix of specialised summits, in-depth legal updates, and valuable networking opportunities. With focused discussions and a strong sense of community, this day provides the ideal platform to reconnect with peers, gain fresh perspectives, and prepare for the full convention experience.
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KEYNOTE – Mark Carter
Cinematic Opening Session: Leadership -
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CEO Address | Franchise Outlook 2026 launchJay Westbury, Franchise Council of Australia (FCA), Amie Larter and Sarah Stowe, OctomediaA new and fresh approach to telling the story and success of franchising with survey results and views from consumers and future franchisees.
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KEYNOTE – Tim LevyAI-Driven Marketing: Revolutionising Franchise AdvertisingAn exciting presentation on the world of AI-driven marketing, where film and media expertise meets cutting-edge technology. With a background in film and media, Tim will showcase how AI can be harnessed to create dynamic, cost-effective marketing ads that resonate with audiences and elevate franchise brand presence.
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FAMO Franchise Accreditation and Mediation Organisation
Facilitator: Jay Westbury, FCA, with guests Warrick Ryan, The Policy Mentor, and Dr. Michael Schaper, Former Franchise Code Reviewer -
In Conversation with Joe Hockey – The former Ambassador Hon. Joe Hockey (Ret) plus Q&A
Former Australian Ambassador to the US, The Hon. Joe Hockey (ret), joins FCA CEO Jay Westbury for an insightful conversation on the shifting geo-political landscape. From tariffs to trade tensions, the Australia-USA relationship, Joe will share his unique perspective on doing business in the US today, and his perspective on franchising. The session wraps with a live Q&A – your chance to hear directly from one of Australia’s most influential voices on international affairs. -
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TOPIC 1: Mark Carter Leadership Session
Leadership Panel: CEO Perspectives on Shaping the Future of Franchising Belinda Amis – Fernwood, Karen Geloven – Kip McGrath, Anthony Grice – Clark RubberJoin us for an exclusive session led by Mark Carter, where top-tier leaders will share their insights on shaping the future of franchising. Mark will host and facilitate an engaging panel featuring a curated group of Influencer Plus CEOs—industry powerhouses who have successfully navigated change and driven growth within their brands.
Expect lively discussions on leadership strategies, innovation, and the evolving role of CEOs in the franchise sector. This session promises valuable takeaways on managing teams, overcoming challenges, and inspiring growth in your franchise business.
TOPIC 2: Media Mastery: How to shine in the spotlight & Stay in Control.
In an era where media exposure can make or break a brand, franchisors must be prepared to communicate with confidence, clarity, and control. Whether you’re engaging with journalists, managing a crisis, or amplifying your presence, the right approach ensures your message is heard, valued, and impactful.
Led by LJ Loch, Executive Chair of Alpha Consult and FCA’s Head of Media and External Affairs, this 40-minute masterclass draws on decades of experience in media, PR, and high-stakes communications, equipping you with practical strategies to own the narrative and engage effectively with the press.
You’ll gain insights into:
Media Essentials – How to communicate with impact and influence
Putting Your Best Face Forward – Mastering body language, tone, and storytelling for media engagements
Handling Critical Media – Techniques to deflect, recover, and stay in control under pressure
Increasing Your Presence – How to secure media opportunities and make your brand stand outThis fast-paced, interactive session will leave you with the skills and confidence to thrive in the media spotlight—whether it’s a proactive interview or a high-pressure moment.
TOPIC 3: Increase Your Profit Margins by Increasing Your Team’s Resilience
Record-breaking results and high-performing franchises aren’t born from great vision, standout products or services, or clear goals alone.
In a world where tariffs, interest rate swings, unregulated markets, fierce competition, savvy customers, rapid tech advances, evolving franchise regulations, anxiety, and personal challenges lurk around every corner, leaders need a more fail-proof way forward.
That way? Building resilient teams
Led by Suzie Botross — pocket-rocket and Director of Devenir — this masterclass delivers a proven strategy to build resilient teams who act like they’re taking home profits, not just pocketing paycheques.
You’ll gain insights into:
• How resilience directly fuels your profits and results (resilient companies grow revenue 6 percentage points faster than their competitors).
• How resilience shapes team culture, creativity, and flow.
• Easy-to-implement tools you can use immediately to start building resilient teams. -
TOPIC 1: Global Insights for Australian Franchisors with Marcel Lal.
Unlock the future of franchise growth with Marcel Lal in this high-impact keynote and panel session, bringing you insights and best practices from abroad to position your Australian franchise for long-term success. Marcel will present key global trends before leading a dynamic conversation with a distinguished panel, including Callum Mackay (Concept Eight), Doug Downer (Franchise Ready), and Tiffany English (Access Offshoring).In this session, we’ll explore critical topics such as:- Gen-AI and Business Modernisation to enable operational efficiency
- Human Capital Management to harness the potential of your people
- Resource Offshoring & Outsourcing to leverage & scale your resources
- Investment in existing and multiple franchise systems to diversify & grow
- Considerations for expanding or promoting your brand globally
This session is relevant for new, emerging or established franchise brands, drawing on the international experience of Marcel and the panel to help equip Australian franchisors for scalable, profitable growth.TOPIC 2: Best Practise Franchise Recruitment Tips and Trends
Facilitator: Business psychologist Greg Nathan
David Ridgeway, General Manager, Quest Apartments, award winning global franchisor
Amber Biesse, CEO, Nurse Next Door, 2025 Australian Franchisor of the Year
David Ciantar, General Manager, FABE Group, multi-brand food and beverage franchisor
Glenn Walford, Founder, Franchise Business Hub, experts in franchise marketing
A dynamic panel of highly experienced franchisor executives, representing established and fast-growing brands. Expect to find practical answers to the following questions:
- What are some of the most cost-effective strategies for attracting quality franchisee leads?
- What are the capabilities needed to succeed as a franchisee recruiter?
- Should franchisors use consultants or brokers for franchisee recruitment?
- What tools and processes are useful for assessing candidate suitability?
- How have changes to the Franchising Code impacted the franchisee recruitment process?
- What are the important issues franchisors need to consider in the franchise resale process?
TOPIC 3: Workers Compensation: Franchising Story
Join Gow Gates as they facilitate this essential session on Workers Compensation in franchising, This session will dive into the key challenges and opportunities surrounding workers’ compensation within the franchise industry, offering practical strategies to manage risks and protect your business.
Key discussion points include:
- Navigating Workers Compensation: Understanding the ins and outs for franchisors
- Role of Insurance: How Allianz supports franchisees and franchisors in mitigating risks
- Compliance and Best Practices: Ensuring your franchise is fully compliant with workers’ compensation requirements
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain expert knowledge on managing workers’ compensation, reducing risks, and ensuring your franchise is protected.
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Ex-CEO from Facebook AUS/NZ- Steven Scheeler
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