The Wire

There are calls for a major overhaul of the franchise system as a parliamentary inquiry into the system lays bare a system of unequal power relations and deceptive conduct.

A range of franchisees have lodged submissions complaining of a lack of information before signing contracts, only to be shocked by the actual operating costs of the business.

Others have received dubious advice such as recruiting migrant workers and underpaying them or operating a second business in breach of contract.