we help you set up a successful franchise business.
Setting up a franchise — whether you are a business owner ready to franchise your model, or an individual looking to enter a franchise system — requires careful legal planning from the outset.
At MST Lawyers, we specialise in franchise law, guiding both franchisors and franchisees through the legal complexities of establishing and growing a successful franchise.
Whether you’re launching a franchise network or joining an existing system, our legal team ensures compliance, minimises risk, and protects your long-term interests.
Our Services for Franchisors
We offer expert assistance across a range of areas for both franchisors and franchisees
Franchise Structuring & Compliance
A well-structured franchise protects your business, franchisees, and brand reputation. We assist with:
- Developing a legally sound franchise model that aligns with your business goals.
- Ensuring compliance with Australian franchise laws and regulations.
- Advising on financial structures, operational frameworks, and risk management strategies.
Franchise Agreements & Disclosure Documents
Clear, legally sound agreements protect franchisors and franchisees. Our team drafts and reviews:
- Franchise agreements that set out clear rights, responsibilities, and obligations.
- Disclosure documents that meet all compliance requirements under the Franchising Code.
- Operations manuals to ensure consistent brand standards across franchise locations.
Franchise Registration & Legal Compliance
We guide franchisors through the registration process and ongoing compliance, including:
- Ensuring your franchise is properly registered and structured.
- Protecting intellectual property, including trademarks, branding, and proprietary systems.
- Ongoing compliance audits to minimise legal risks.
Leasing & Licensing Agreements
Many franchisors require commercial spaces for franchisees. For detailed advice on commercial lease negotiation and review, see our Commercial Leasing Services page.
Our Services for Franchisees
We offer expert assistance across a range of areas for franchisees:
Franchise Agreement Review & Negotiation
Understanding your franchise agreement is crucial before signing. We assist with:
- Reviewing and explaining key terms to ensure clarity and transparency.
- Identifying potential risks, hidden costs, and obligations.
- Negotiating better terms where possible to protect your interests.
Business Structuring & Restructuring
Choosing the right business structure can impact your financial and legal standing. We provide guidance on:
- Setting up a company, trust, or partnership for your franchise.
- Protecting your personal assets from business liabilities.
- Restructuring an existing franchise to improve profitability or accommodate expansion.
Leasing & Premises Agreements
Securing a location is often a key part of starting a franchise. For detailed advice on commercial lease negotiation and review, see our Commercial Leasing Services page.
Understanding Your Rights & Obligations
Franchisees must comply with legal and operational requirements. MST Lawyers provides:
- Clear advice on your legal rights, obligations, and financial commitments.
- Guidance on compliance with franchise laws and ongoing responsibilities.
- Support in resolving disputes if issues arise between you and the franchisor.
Meet the lawyers dedicated to your success
Franchise Law Team
OUR Clients
Serving both individuals and businesses
Our clients span industries, backgrounds, and needs, each relying on MST Lawyers for dedicated, effective legal support.
Ready to discuss your legal needs?
Whether you’re building a franchise network or investing in a franchise, MST Lawyers provides expert legal support to ensure a smooth and successful experience. Speak to our franchise law specialists today to discuss how we can assist with your franchise set-up.
Book a consultation using our contact form or phone us on (03) 8540 0200.
why choose MST lawyers
what we're known for
When you partner with MST Lawyers, you gain a team dedicated to your success. With deep multi-disciplinary expertise, personal service, local Melbourne knowledge, and a proven track record of delivering results, we’re trusted to provide responsive, professional, and effective legal support.
FAQS
Have a question? Just ask
Franchise set-up involves legally structuring a business to be replicated and expanded while ensuring compliance with Australian franchise laws. It protects the franchisor’s brand and the franchisee’s investment.
Franchisors require a franchise agreement, disclosure document, operations manual, and proper business registration to comply with the Franchising Code of Conduct.
We provide end-to-end legal support, including franchise structuring, compliance, agreement drafting, leasing advice, and business registration.
Franchisees should fully understand the financial commitments, legal responsibilities, operational requirements, and risks associated with the franchise. MST Lawyers can review agreements, explain key terms, and negotiate better conditions.
Yes, we assist with franchise restructuring, business model adjustments, ownership changes, and legal compliance updates to support franchise growth or transitions.
You can schedule a consultation online or contact our team directly to discuss your franchise legal needs on +61 3 8540 0200.
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We guide franchisors and franchisees through set-up, compliance, agreements, and transactions with clarity and confidence.