In this episode, recorded live at the National Franchising Convention, Glenn speaks with Bruce Billson, the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, about the evolving landscape of franchising and small business regulation in Australia.
Episode Timeline
- 0:00 – Introduction
- 0:27 – The pace of change in franchising regulation and the Shaper Review
- 2:46 – Why profitability and proof of concept are core to franchising
- 3:31 – How the “reasonable prospect” rule will likely be tested and interpreted
- 5:19 – Australia’s highly regulated franchise sector and its implications
- 6:14 – The risk of overregulation and why due diligence still matters
- 7:13 – Big brands moving away from franchising and why
- 9:24 – The danger of assuming big franchise brands guarantee success
- 10:18 – Why disclosure doesn’t replace real research and homework
- 11:46 – The three core functions of the Australian Small Business Ombudsman
- 12:43 – Wrap up
Bruce unpacks the Schaper Review, recent updates to the Franchise Code of Conduct, and the introduction of a new requirement ensuring a “reasonable prospect of return” for franchisees — a concept designed to protect investors while encouraging more responsible franchising.
He also discusses the balance between regulation and entrepreneurial freedom, why due diligence remains critical despite tighter controls, and the growing concern that excessive compliance could push some large brands away from franchising altogether.
As the Ombudsman, Bruce outlines how his office supports the sector through education, dispute resolution, and advocacy, helping both franchisors and franchisees navigate an increasingly complex business environment.
