Franchise Law

Franchising involves committing to a long-term business relationship with defined rights, obligations, and expectations. Clear legal advice helps franchisors and franchisees understand where they stand and move forward with confidence.

We help:

Clarify franchise rights, obligations, and risk allocation under franchise agreements
Make informed decisions when entering, operating within, or exiting a franchise arrangement
Address issues that may disrupt performance, compliance, or commercial relationships

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4.9

86 Google Reviews

Award Winning Law Firm – Top Specialist Firm & Top Boutique Firm (Australasian Lawyer)

First class advice, service, and communication. I have had the pleasure of working with Velocity Legal for many years across a range of challenging matters and they never fail to impress.

Grant F

Their meticulous attention to detail, unwavering professionalism and strategic approach have delivered an outstanding result. Their level of service is nothing short of impressive.

Jack C

From the initial consultation to the final resolution, they provided exceptional
service and achieved an outstanding result for our case.

Wan Li

We are an accounting firm that works closely with Velocity Legal on all our client's legal matters… Every client who works with their team is delighted and impressed by the clear advice, efficient communication, and seamless process.

Selina L

I highly recommend the team at Velocity Legal. They are extremely knowledgeable, professional, have an eye for detail and their work ethic is second to none.

Mark P

They provided so much support and guidance through the process and I felt like they genuinely cared about getting the right outcome for me. They obviously know their stuff but were able to explain things in a simple and clear way.

Natalie F

Approachable, honest, professional and transparent. An absolute pleasure to work with.

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4.9

86 Google Reviews

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We Understand What You Are Going Through

Franchise relationships involve a high degree of trust and long-term commitment on both sides. Whether you are a franchisor managing a network or a franchisee operating within one, uncertainty around rights, obligations, and expectations can affect confidence and planning.

You may be considering entering a franchise, renewing an agreement, dealing with compliance issues, or addressing concerns that have arisen as the business evolves. These situations can feel complex, particularly where regulatory requirements and commercial pressures intersect.

We understand the practical realities of franchising. We help franchisors and franchisees work through these issues in a calm and pragmatic way, so decisions are made with clarity and confidence.

Our Services Include

Advising franchisors and franchisees on franchise agreements and related documentation
Reviewing franchise agreements before entry, renewal, or exit
Advising on compliance with the Franchising Code of Conduct and disclosure obligations
Supporting negotiation of franchise terms, variations, and renewals
Clarifying ongoing obligations, including royalties, marketing contributions, and performance requirements
Assisting with disputes between franchisors and franchisees
Advising on franchised business sales and transitions

Our Difference

Accountability & Expertise

Every matter we handle comes with full accountability. You’ll deal directly with an expert – every time, no exceptions.

In Your Shoes

Understanding your unique circumstances and goals - so our advice is practical, personal, and never given in a vacuum.

Transparency & Communication

We speak your language. That means plain, clear advice - what’s happening, why it matters, and what comes next.

50+

Australian Based Team

4,000+

Matters Expertly Handled

10+

Awards & Industry Recognition

Our Process

Book Meeting
Fill in the contact form below or call our office to book an initial consult. You can choose between an in-person or video conference.
Get Advice 
You’ll discuss your situation in depth with a senior lawyer. This includes exploring your requirements, goals, and desired outcomes. You’ll walk away from this meeting with a clear understanding of the next steps.
Achieve Outcomes 
Our legal team will work tirelessly to achieve your desired objectives. We work hard, communicate regularly, and pride ourselves on delivering results.

Book a Consult

Take the First Step Today

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Book an initial consult with our expert legal team and get clear answers about your situation.

Transparent quotes (no ‘bill shock’)
Rapid response
Award winning team

Andrew Henshaw

Managing Director

Award Winning Law Firm – Top Specialist Firm & Top Boutique Firm (Australasian Lawyer)

Our Directors

Managing Director

Andrew Henshaw

Director

Demian Walton

Director

Greg Thomas

Director

Jennifer Maher

Director

Jess Hill

Director

Rajan Verma

Director

Robert Osler

Director

Seamus Ryan

Director

Shannon Hilton

Franchise Lawyers in Melbourne

Franchising involves a distinct legal framework that applies to both franchisors and franchisees. The obligations imposed by the Franchising Code of Conduct, the complexity of franchise agreements, and the potential for disputes at any stage of the relationship mean that experienced legal advice is important whether you are entering a franchise arrangement, managing an existing one, or dealing with a breakdown in the relationship.

Who We Work With

At Velocity Legal, our franchise lawyers in Melbourne act for both franchisors and franchisees across a range of industries. The legal issues that arise on each side of the relationship are different, and the advice needs to reflect that.

For franchisees, the focus is often on understanding what you are agreeing to before you sign, reviewing the franchisor's disclosure document, and ensuring the franchise agreement reflects the commercial arrangement you have negotiated. Franchise agreements are typically lengthy and heavily weighted in favour of the franchisor. Having a franchise agreement lawyer review the document before you commit can identify issues that affect your commercial position, your obligations during the term, and your rights on exit.

For franchisors, the focus is on ensuring the franchise system is properly documented, that agreements comply with the Franchising Code of Conduct and Australian Consumer Law, and that the franchisor's interests are protected if a franchisee underperforms or the relationship breaks down. If you are expanding a franchise system that has operated in another jurisdiction, it is important not to assume that arrangements compliant elsewhere will meet Australian franchise law requirements.

What We Can Help With

The services offered by a franchise lawyer include:

Franchise agreements: We draft and review franchise agreements for franchisors and franchisees. A well-drafted agreement sets out the rights and obligations of each party clearly, reduces the scope for disagreement, and provides a workable framework for the commercial relationship. We also advise on variations and updates to existing contractual agreements.
Disclosure documents: Under the Franchising Code of Conduct, franchisors are required to provide franchisees with a disclosure document before entry into a franchise agreement. We advise franchisors on their disclosure obligations and assist franchisees in understanding and assessing the information provided.
Regulatory compliance: Franchise businesses in Australia must comply with the Franchising Code of Conduct, the Competition and Consumer Act 2010, and Australian Consumer Law, including obligations around advertising and marketing. We advise on compliance obligations and help identify and address any areas of risk.
Termination and exit: Terminating a franchise agreement, whether by a franchisor or a franchise lawyer in Melbourne, involves specific legal requirements under the Code, including good faith obligations and notice requirements. We advise on lawful termination processes and the rights and obligations of each party on exit.
Franchise disputes: Disputes can arise over performance, territory, fees, termination, or alleged breaches of the agreement. Our franchise dispute lawyer team assists clients in resolving disputes through negotiation, mediation, and litigation where necessary. Under the Franchising Code of Conduct, parties are generally required to attempt mediation before commencing court proceedings, and we can guide you through that process.

How Velocity Legal Can Help

Our commercial lawyers advise clients on franchise matters with the same focus on practical, commercially sound outcomes that we bring to all our work. We are transparent about costs and provide a clear fee estimate following your initial consultation.

If you are looking for an experienced franchise lawyer in Melbourne, contact Velocity Legal to discuss your matter. Read Less

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I consider before signing a franchise agreement?

Before signing, it is important to understand your ongoing obligations, including fees, performance requirements, compliance expectations, and exit rights. Clarifying these matters early helps assess whether the franchise aligns with your commercial goals and capacity.

Can franchise agreements be changed after they are signed?

Yes. Franchise agreements can be varied if both parties agree and the changes are properly documented. Variations often arise where circumstances change or the franchise system evolves.

What issues commonly arise in franchise relationships?

Common issues include disagreements about performance standards, compliance with brand requirements, fees, territorial rights, and support arrangements. These issues often emerge where expectations differ or business conditions change.

Why are disclosure documents important in franchising?

Disclosure documents provide key information about the franchise system, financial commitments, risks, and support arrangements. Understanding these documents helps franchisors and franchisees make informed decisions and avoid surprises after entering the arrangement.

Take the First
Step Today

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Book an initial consult with our expert legal team and get clear answers about your situation.

Transparent quotes (no ‘bill shock’)
Rapid response
Award winning team

Book Consult

4.9

86 Google Reviews

Award Winning Law Firm – Top Specialist Firm & Top Boutique Firm (Australasian Lawyer)