It’s mid-2025, and I’m back at my writing desk, updating our most popular and informative franchise blog with the latest information and statistics from 2024.
I made a couple of changes to our most popular blog (at public demand) to now focus on the franchise sectors first and then categorise the franchises under those headings.
The list still has 15 entries. However, they are not clubbed under different franchise sectors that have witnessed excellent growth in the last few years. Also, as an icing on the cake, we added additional information like franchise fees, royalties, etc, to help you make an informed decision to buy the franchises
Welcome to the “Most Profitable Franchise Businesses to Buy in Australia,” 2025 Edition.
This article reviews the top franchise opportunities for investing in Australia.
It was quite arduous, given that we had to examine over 500 of them meticulously and ultimately ended up with the list that you are reading.
The rest was added to our Franchise buying and selling directory, which covers all famous franchises from various sectors in Australia.
Alrighty… It’s time to provide a brief overview of the significant growth in the Australian franchise sector, particularly in 2024.
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Before I begin with bullet points, I would like to start with some positive news in the Australian Franchise sector in 2024 : In 2024, franchisee revenue increased by 12% and profit by 13%, outperforming many private businesses(PWC).
The opportunities in the franchise sector look promising.
Plans are in place to open 1,374 new franchised units within the next twelve months, with 68% of these requiring access to finance.
Moving forward to other statistics with the assistance of the Franchise Council of Australia report, which helped me track the performance of companies from 2023-24 and compile a list efficiently.
Here are the Franchise numbers that matter from 2024:
A significant reason for the success of franchises in Australia is that they offer a relatively safe investment.
If you are a small business owner seeking a profitable business idea in Australia, this blog offers some excellent franchise options for you.
Let’s get rolling!
The takeaway food sector in Australia is experiencing rapid growth, projected to reach USD 5.3 billion by 2024. Despite economic pressures, it added 178 outlets in 2024, with chains like Subway, McDonald’s, and KFC opening over 20 new stores to meet population growth.
IBISWorld reports strong recovery and growth, driven by consumer demand for convenience and delivery, with a CAGR of 3.92% from 2025 to 2033. Established QSRs with digital systems continue to lead.
Challenges include high competition, rising costs, and site saturation in urban areas, making location and cost management vital.
Opportunities exist for brands with digital ordering, delivery, and multi-unit strategies to scale quickly and capitalise on delivery demand fueled by population growth.(source: Imarc Group and Retail Biz)
Initial Costs: A$ 230K–565K | Royalties: 12.5% of gross sales (8% royalty + 4.5% marketing)
Founded in 1965 in Connecticut, USA, Subway was co-founded by Fred DeLuca and family friend Dr. Peter Buck. It is a globally recognized fast food franchise popular for its fresh, made-to-order subs and flexible traditional and non-traditional store formats.
Network: 1240+ stores in Australia.
Training: Intensive training (2 weeks) in Brisbane and e-learning via ”University of Subway”.
Additional: Ongoing operational and marketing support.
(Source: Subway)
Startup: A$ 2M (typical) | Royalty: 5% | Fees: 4% advertising (plus rent)
Founded in 1940 in California, USA, McDonald’s was founded by brothers Richard and Maurice McDonald and later expanded by Ray Kroc. It is a globally recognized fast food franchise celebrated for its consistent quality, iconic menu items such as the Big Mac, and a highly efficient, standardized operational system.
Network: 1050+ stores in Australia.
Training: Extensive Registered Applicant Training (12 months) including hands-on, classroom, and in-store programs.
Additional: Full operational, marketing, HR, construction, maintenance, and supply chain support.
(Source: McDonald’s)
Startup: A$ 500K – A$1.5M | Fees: 5% Royalty + 4% marketing
KFC, founded in 1952 in Salt Lake City, Utah, and headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, is a global quick-service restaurant giant renowned for its fried chicken made with Colonel Sanders’ secret “11 herbs and spices” recipe.
Network: 690+ stores in Australia.
Training: Comprehensive support, including training, operational assistance, marketing materials, and ongoing guidance. (6 weeks average)
Additional: Assistance with location selection, marketing, HR, construction, maintenance, and supply chain management.
(Source: KFC)
Australia’s coffee culture is renowned worldwide, with cafés and mobile coffee vans playing a vital role in daily life. The sector has experienced significant growth, with the number of cafés reaching over 55,700 by the end of 2024—a 30% increase since 2017. Employment in the broader café and restaurant industry stands at approximately 630,100, supporting the nation’s vibrant coffee scene.
The market is valued at around USD 2.44 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.63% through 2030. This growth is driven by persistent consumer demand for specialty coffee, ethical sourcing, and the convenience of on-demand services.
Mobile coffee operations are expanding alongside traditional cafés, offering investors diverse entry points—from low-cost mobile ventures to premium dine-in formats.
Segments like ready-to-drink and cold-brew coffees are expanding rapidly, with a CAGR of 6.94%, especially notable in Queensland, where forecasts predict a growth rate of 6.53%. Despite fierce competition—particularly in urban markets with numerous independent cafés and franchise brands—opportunities remain for brands that emphasise sustainability, fast service, and high-quality products.
These elements are especially vital when expanding into suburban and regional markets, where the potential for continued growth remains strong. (source: Modor intelligence )
Startup: A$ 100K – 150K | Royalties: A$ 55 per machine per week | Fees: 2% of gross sales for marketing
Founded in 2003 in Australia by Stephen Baxter and Paul Crabtree, Xpresso Delight began franchising in 2004. Its “coffee-as-a-service” model uses automated espresso machines to deliver quality and convenience, with franchisees managing upkeep, client service, and supplies.
Network: 690+ stores in Australia.
Training: Comprehensive training is included, but franchisees may need to cover travel and accommodation costs.
Additional: Xpresso Delight provides commercial-grade coffee machines as part of the business model.
(Source: FranchiseWisely)
Startup: A$450K – 750K + GST | Royalties: 6%
Founded in 1989 in Brisbane, Australia by Emmanuel Kokoris and Emmanuel Drivas, The Coffee Club is Australia’s largest home-grown café group. It is known for its casual, stylish café experience serving excellent coffee and food, inspired by the Greek concept of ‘philoxenia’—hospitality to strangers—creating a welcoming community space.
Network: 200+ stores in Australia.
Training: Intensive five-week program combining classroom and in-store practical experience covering all key operational areas.
Additional: Support involves personalized guidance from a Franchise Business Coach during store launch and ongoing assistance in operations, marketing, and staff development.
(Source: Top Franchise)
Startup: A$ 380K–600K | Royalties: 5–7%
Founded in 1979 in Chicago, USA by Gloria Jean Kvetko, Gloria Jean’s Coffees is an international coffeehouse franchise owned by Australia’s Foodco Group, known for its specialty espresso coffee.
Network: 170+ stores in Australia.
Training: Franchise Partner training program, combining two weeks of classroom learning at the Sydney Training Centre with three weeks of hands-on experience in local coffee houses .
Additional: Ongoing operational and marketing support with store opening assistance and continuous in-store training.
(Source: Gloria Jean’s)
Australia’s fitness sector has experienced a robust recovery following pandemic-related declines, with an annual growth rate of approximately 8.7% projected for 2025.
The industry’s revenue declined at a CAGR of 7.0% from 2020 to 2025, influenced by increased competition from boutique studios and at-home training options. However, 86.8% of operators anticipate membership growth, and 92.6% expect revenue increases in 2025.
Growth is driven by factors such as increased consumer focus on wellness, digital integration, and flexible workout options. The post-pandemic recovery has spurred demand across both local and suburban gym formats.
The sector faces high upfront fit-out and equipment costs, staff dependencies, and stiff competition from boutique players. Member retention and delivering a consistent brand experience are crucial for profitability.
Emerging models offering hybrid in-person and digital services, regional accessibility, or express membership tiers are tapping into underserved segments and fueling growth.
The industry is poised for improvement as economic conditions stabilise, with boutique gyms and flexible training models expected to be key drivers of future gains. (source: Les Mills and IBIS World)
Startup: A$ 600K+ | Royalties: 7% of revenue
Founded in 2002 in Minnesota, USA, Anytime Fitness is a global 24/7 health and fitness franchise known for its unmanned gyms featuring secure access technology and providing members with convenient round-the-clock fitness access.
Network: 575+ stores in Australia.
Training: Self-paced online course, 3–5 days of classroom training, and 1–3 days of on-site shadowing.
Additional: Annual continuing education and support via in-person, webinar, or virtual sessions.
(Source: Anytime Fitness)
Startup: A$1.6M–6.5M (approx.) | Royalties: 7% of revenue + 2% national ad fee
Founded in 1992 and headquartered in Hampton, New Hampshire, USA, Planet Fitness is a nationally recognized fitness franchise known for its “Judgment Free Zone” philosophy and affordable memberships.
Network: 2700+ stores worldwide.
Training: 74 hours of classroom and 20 hours of hands-on training covering gym operations and management
Additional: Comprehensive support including site selection, gym setup, ongoing marketing, operations assistance, and access to a dedicated franchisee support team. (Source: Franchise Direct)
Startup: A$529K–1.015M | Royalties: 6% of revenue | Fees: 2% marketing contribution
Founded in 2003 and headquartered in Chanhassen, Minnesota, USA, Snap Fitness is a global 24/7 fitness franchise known for pioneering a lean, affordable gym model.
Network: 269+ stores worldwide.
Training: 40+ hours of structured training including classroom instruction and 3–5 days of on-site support through “Snap University”.
Additional: Support in site selection, lease negotiation, gym fit-out, equipment procurement, membership launch marketing, technology systems, ongoing operational assistance, and finance resources.
(Source: Sharpsheets)
Australia’s cleaning franchise sector benefits from consistent demand across both residential and commercial markets, offering a reliable income stream with lower startup costs compared to retail or food services.
The industry is driven by increasing hygiene concerns post-pandemic, boosting demand for services like office, carpet, and window cleaning.
Opportunities abound for franchises that specialise in niche markets such as eco-friendly cleaning, high-rise window cleaning, and medical facility sanitation, which can yield higher margins and foster loyal client relationships.
However, competition remains fierce with many small operators discounting prices, making staff retention and service quality crucial for long-term success.
The Australian cleaning services market is valued at AUD 18.05 billion in 2024, with a projected CAGR of 5.10% from 2025 to 2034. The commercial cleaning segment grew at a 5.5% CAGR between 2020 and 2025, driven by heightened hygiene standards in healthcare and hospitality, technological advancements, and a shift towards eco-friendly solutions. (Source: IBISWorld)
Startup: Approximately A$30,000 | Fees: Approx. A$700 plus pay-per-lead fees (A$9–18 per lead) + Territory purchase fees (A$ 20K average)
Jim’s Cleaning, founded in 1994 and based in Mooroolbark, Victoria, is part of the broader Jim’s Group service empire. It offers a recognised and trusted franchise option specialising in residential and commercial cleaning, with additional services like car detailing, pressure washing, and window cleaning.
Network: 4000+ stores across various services.
Training: 5-day business training, followed by 5 days of on-the-job training.
Additional: Ongoing guidance, regional support, and up to eight annual training sessions, plus a complete kit with equipment, signage, uniforms, and supplies to start.
(Source: Franchise Accountant)
Startup: From approximately A$12,500
Founded in 1972, VIP Home Services was the first franchise in Australia’s lawn and garden maintenance industry. It remains proudly Australian-owned and has expanded across residential, commercial, lawn, garden, carpet, window, and road cleaning services.
Network: 1000+ stores across AU & NZ.
Training: 4 weeks of on-the-job training.
Additional: Full marketing and operational support, equipment partnerships, and flexible part- or full-time work options.
(Source: Top Franchise)
Startup: Approximately A$127,000–175,000 | Royalties: 5%–7% of gross sales | Additional Fees: Advertising royalty about 1.3%
Founded in 1979 in Omaha, Nebraska, by Dallen Peterson and later acquired by ServiceMaster in 1988, Merry Maids is a globally established residential cleaning services franchise.
Network: 450+ stores in Australia.
Training: 65 hours of classroom training, 10 hours on-the-job training.
Additional: Ongoing support, including marketing, operations, technology systems, proprietary tools, exclusive territories, and guidance from dedicated Business Development Consultants.
(Source:Merry Maids)
The home maintenance franchise sector in Australia experiences steady demand from a growing population, increasing housing developments, and a rising number of households. It covers services such as repairs, renovations, fencing, and gutter cleaning, which are often outsourced due to busy lifestyles.
Compared to retail or food franchises, these businesses require lower capital and rely on repeat business, which supports their stability. The industry was valued at USD 10.40 billion in 2024, with a CAGR of 3.9% from 2025 to 2033. The niche market, valued at AUD 18 billion, is expected to grow at a rate of 3.5%, driven by renovations, rising property values, DIY trends, and sustainable upgrades.
Opportunities include eco-friendly maintenance, fencing, high-rise cleaning, and specialised repairs, which can offer higher margins. Franchises that provide flexible services and prioritise convenience can secure loyal clients.
Challenges include competition from small operators, attracting and retaining skilled staff and franchisees, maintaining high standards across regions, supply chain issues, and regulatory hurdles that impact profitability. (Source: Expert Market Research)
Startup: From approximately A$90,000 + GST plus purchase of a van (A$ 35,000) | Additional Fees: Marketing, vehicle branding, equipment, insurance, uniforms, licenses, and inventory costs apply
Founded in 1992 in Brisbane, Poolwerx is Australasia’s largest pool and spa maintenance network, with over 180 retail stores, 676+ service vans, and operations across 350+ territories.
Network: 140+ stores across Australia.
Training: One week of online study, followed by three weeks at the “Pool School” facility in Brisbane. (Certificate III in Pool & Spa Maintenance)
Additional: Training airfare and accommodation covered, and hands-on mentoring in the field.
(Source: Poolwerx)
Startup: From A$15K–63K | Royalties: Flat weekly or monthly fee (no percentage-based royalties)
V.I.P. Lawn & Garden Care is part of Australia’s longest-running home service franchise, established in 1972 and the first to franchise lawn and garden maintenance nationwide then.
Network: 1100+ stores across Australia and NZ.
Training: 4 weeks of practical training.
Additional: Marketing guidance, operations mentoring, access to proven systems and products, cloud bookkeeping tools, and a dedicated online portal (VIPeR)—all included in your fee.
(Source: Top Franchise)
Startup: From approximately A$ 69,400 + GST
Gutter-Vac is Australia’s leading specialist franchise in roof, gutter, and ceiling space cleaning, with over 80 mobile, home-based franchises nationwide. The business utilizes a proprietary vacuum cleaning system that offers a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional gutter cleaning, providing franchisees exclusive territories, low overheads, capped royalties, and strong brand support. Franchisees enjoy significant flexibility to manage their schedules and scale their operations according to demand.
Network: 80+ stores across Australia.
Training: 11-day training program at the Brisbane head office covering operations, safety, marketing, customer service, and administrative systems.
Additional: Exclusive territory.
(Source: GutterVac)
Profitability depends on cost, margins, and business model. High-AUV brands like McDonald’s, Domino’s, or 7-Eleven provide strong cash flows, but exact net profits vary by location and setup
Low-cost options include mobile services, cleaning businesses, and home-based franchises such as vending, lawn care, or small-scale coffee vans. They require less capital but can still deliver strong returns.
Popular choices often include McDonald’s, Subway, Anytime Fitness, Jim’s Group, Bakers Delight, Boost Juice, Snap Fitness, Poolwerx, Roll’d, and Coffee Club — each offering proven systems and brand recognition.
Choose a franchise that aligns with your interests, skills, budget, and local market needs. Research the brand’s reputation, support systems, and track record before investing.
Most Australian franchises offer initial training, marketing support, site selection help, and ongoing operational guidance to ensure franchisees can run the business successfully.
You must receive a Franchise Disclosure Document and a copy of the Franchise Code of Conduct. Legal and financial advice is strongly recommended before signing any agreement.
Some of the easiest and most affordable franchises to start in Australia include mobile coffee vans, vending machine businesses, domestic cleaning services, and lawn care operations. These options usually require low start-up costs, minimal staff, and flexible working hours, making them ideal for first-time business owners.
Not all franchises are created equal. Choosing the right franchise in Australia means carefully assessing what each brand offers, the initial investment required, and the customer base it serves.
From well-known food franchises to niche service models, Australia’s most profitable franchise opportunities cater to every interest, skill set, and budget. By exploring the top options and committing to the one that aligns with your goals, you can step confidently into a strong, diversified business sector.
The demand for quality franchises in Australia is growing — and there’s never been a better time to start.
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