How to Become A Franchise Owner
A franchise owner runs their own business under the name of an existing brand. Think of your favourite fast-food chain, gym, or cleaning service. Someone local owns and runs that outlet. In Australia, there are more than 94,000 franchised businesses across food, fitness, health, education, and more (Franchise Council of Australia, 2023).
As a franchise owner, you are your own boss. You hire the team, manage the money, handle day-to-day operations, and build your customer base. The brand, the product, and the playbook are already there. Your job is to run it well and grow it in your area.
Start-up costs vary a lot. Some service franchises start from under $50,000. Food and retail outlets can cost several hundred thousand dollars. You also pay ongoing royalties to the franchisor. It is a real business with real financial risk, so going in with your eyes open is key.
If you love running a business, managing people, and serving customers, franchise ownership could be a great fit. You get the independence of being your own boss with the support of a proven brand behind you.
Career Outlook for Franchise Owner
Franchise ownership in Australia is a sizeable career path. The sector supports over 94,000 individual franchise outlets. It adds around $174 billion to the economy (Franchise Council of Australia, 2023). Demand stays strong because consumers keep returning to familiar brands. New industries like fitness and aged care keep entering the franchise model.
Average earnings for franchise owners are around $106,000 a year (Indeed Australia, 2024). The range goes from about $60,000 at entry level to $150,000 and above for skilled owners in high-volume brands. Hours are long. Most owners work 50 or more hours a week, especially in the early years.
The franchise model keeps evolving. The Franchising Code of Conduct was updated in April 2025, giving franchisees stronger rights (ACCC, 2025). If you go in well-prepared and choose the right franchise, this career offers real financial upside. You also get the freedom of running your own business.
About the author
Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.
