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Buying a Franchise in Brisbane: The Legal Steps You Need to Know

  • Writer: Raymond Duffy
    Raymond Duffy
  • Nov 7, 2025
  • 3 min read

Introduction

Buying a franchise in Brisbane can be an exciting and rewarding way to start or expand your business journey. Whether it’s a café in South Bank, a fitness studio in Newstead, or a retail outlet in one of Brisbane’s busy shopping centres, franchising offers the benefit of an established brand and proven systems.


However, behind every successful franchise purchase lies careful legal and financial due diligence. Engaging an experienced franchise lawyer in Brisbane, like Greyson Legal, can help you navigate the complex documentation, compliance requirements, and potential risks before you sign on the dotted line.



Review the Franchise Disclosure Document

Before entering into any franchise agreement, you must receive a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) from the franchisor at least 14 days before signing.This document is required under the Franchising Code of Conduct and provides critical information such as:

  • The franchisor’s business history and experience

  • Fees, royalties, and marketing contributions

  • Territory rights and restrictions

  • Current and former franchisees

  • Any litigation history or disputes


A franchise lawyer can review this document with you to identify red flags or areas requiring clarification, ensuring you know exactly what you’re committing to.


Examine the Franchise Agreement Carefully

The franchise agreement is the legally binding contract that governs your rights and obligations as a franchisee.

It typically covers:

  • The term of the agreement and renewal rights

  • Operating procedures and brand standards

  • Fees and payment schedules

  • Termination and default provisions

  • Obligations during and after the franchise ends

Many franchise agreements are written heavily in favour of the franchisor. Having Greyson Legal’s franchise lawyersreview and explain the clauses helps you understand what is negotiable — and what could expose you to financial or operational risk.

3. Conduct Financial and Business Due Diligence

Beyond the legal review, ensure you understand the financial viability of the franchise opportunity.This includes:

  • Analysing turnover and profitability projections

  • Reviewing the franchisor’s business model

  • Assessing local market demand within Brisbane suburbs

  • Where a premises is involved, checking lease terms or license-to-occupy arrangements

  • Seeking independent financial advice if necessary


Greyson Legal Brisbane Franchise Lawyers can work alongside your accountant or business advisor to coordinate a thorough due diligence process before you commit.


Understand Your Lease or Premises Agreement

Many franchise businesses operate from leased premises. Whether it’s a retail store in Brisbane CBD or a café in West End, your obligations under the lease or licence to occupy can be significant.


Greyson Legal can help you:

  • Review and negotiate lease terms

  • Ensure lease duration aligns with the franchise term

  • Identify repair, maintenance, and outgoings responsibilities

  • Advise on retail shop lease disclosure requirements under Queensland law


A properly reviewed lease protects you from unforeseen costs and disputes down the line.


Verify Compliance with the Franchising Code of Conduct

Both franchisors and franchisees in Brisbane are bound by the Franchising Code of Conduct, a mandatory industry code under the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth).The Code governs key issues like disclosure, dispute resolution, marketing fund transparency, and good faith obligations.


Greyson Legal ensures your franchise documentation and franchisor dealings comply with these Code requirements.


Finalise the Purchase and Post-Signing Steps

Once you’re satisfied with the due diligence results and legal review, Greyson Legal Brisbane Franchise Lawyers can assist with:

  • Signing and witnessing franchise documentation

  • Reviewing finance or loan agreements (if applicable)

  • Ensuring all pre-conditions are met before settlement

  • Advising on compliance and operational setup after purchase


Having professional legal support through to completion gives you peace of mind — knowing your new Brisbane franchise is built on a strong legal foundation.


Why Choose Greyson Legal – Franchise Lawyers Brisbane

At Greyson Legal, we understand that buying a franchise is a major investment. As Brisbane-based franchise lawyers we provide clear, practical, and local advice to help you make informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls.


We assist franchise buyers across all industries — from hospitality and retail to fitness and home services — ensuring your rights are protected from the very beginning.


Need Help Buying a Franchise in Brisbane?

Contact Greyson Legal | Franchise Lawyers Brisbane for experienced legal guidance before you buy. We’ll review your franchise documents, explain your rights and risks, and help ensure your business journey starts off on solid legal ground.


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