Australia's best and brightest franchisees were honoured today at the Regional Franchisee of the Year Awards in Melbourne.
Organised by the Franchising Council of Australia and sponsored by PWC, the awards recognise franchising excellence. From the five regional winners, one will be declared the National Franchisee of the Year Award.
"I congratulate the award winners. These awards highlight franchisee excellence and the benefits of franchising across the economy," Fran Bailey, Minister for Small Business and Tourism, said today.
"Franchising in Australia is big business. Franchising is a $130 billion sector which employs more than 420,000 people. Equally impressive is that fact that 25 per cent of Australian franchise systems have moved into international markets – taking great Australian ideas to the world!
"Franchising offers the lifestyle benefits of being your own boss, but with the added security of using a tried and tested business model. But franchising is not for everyone and anyone interested in franchising needs to undertake thorough and diligent business checks."
The Australian Government has strengthened the disclosure provisions of the Franchising Code of Conduct, introduced mediation and provided additional funding for the ACCC. The Government has also exempted small business from unfair dismissals and encouraged flexibility with our workplace reforms.
"Flexibility in the workplace is essential for the current and future success of franchising. Rolling back these reforms will cost jobs and thousands of dollars for the franchising industry," Fran Bailey said.
Regional winners were:
NSW/ACT: Narellan Pools (Marc and Tania Donohue)
QLD/NT: Worldwide Online Printing (Andrew Robertson)
SA: Mr Carports (Jock Dean)
Vic/Tas: Optus World (Cameron Mactier and Margaret Whelan)
WA: ANZ Mortgage Solutions (Jamie Gant)
Kevin Lowe: 02 62777 450 0408 404 468
