It’s start of 2026, and I’m back at my writing desk, updating our most popular and informative franchise blog with the latest information and statistics from 2025.
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.
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 2025.
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Before we dive into the latest numbers, it is worth reflecting on the incredible momentum built over the last year.
In 2024, the Australian franchise sector proved its resilience: franchisee revenue climbed by 12% and profits by 13%, consistently outperforming many independent private businesses (PWC).
That success wasn’t a fluke—it was a foundation. As we move through 2025, the sector has matured into a $201.2 billion economic powerhouse. With over 1,300 new units slated for opening this year and a continued focus on small business empowerment, the opportunities for investors have never looked more promising.
Drawing from the latest Franchise Council of Australia reports and industry data, here are the franchise numbers that matter in 2025:
A significant reason for the sustained success of franchises in 2025 is their evolution into a relatively safe, structured investment. With the introduction of the updated Franchising Code of Conduct in April 2025, transparency and franchisee protections are at an all-time high, making this year a landmark time for entry into the market.
Whether you are a seasoned investor or a first-time entrepreneur, these stats highlight a sector that isn’t just surviving—it’s leading Australia’s small business growth.
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 Australian takeaway food sector is currently witnessing a period of “hyper-resilience.” While other retail segments have felt the pinch of high interest rates, the QSR market has reached a record valuation of $29.7 billion AUD in 2025. This growth is fueled by a “trading down” effect, where consumers choose high-value fast-food meals over traditional sit-down dining.
Market Size: $29.7 Billion AUD (up 2.9% from 2024).
Network Expansion: The industry added over 500 new outlets between 2024 and 2025, bringing the total number of businesses to 26,824.
Leading the Charge: Australia’s “Big Three” have hit new milestones in store counts:
Subway: 1,248 outlets
McDonald’s: 1,059 outlets
KFC: 795 outlets
Growth Outlook: Analysts at Mordor Intelligence and IBISWorld forecast a robust CAGR of 4.17% to 7.5% through to 2033, with the cloud kitchen (delivery-only) segment growing at an even faster rate of 12.4%.
Opportunities exist for brands with digital ordering, delivery, and multi-unit strategies to scale quickly and capitalise on delivery demand fueled by population growth.(source: Imarc Group and Retail Biz)
Initial Costs: A$ 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 has reached new heights in 2025, moving from a daily ritual to a sophisticated economic pillar. As the world looks to Melbourne and Sydney for trends, the sector is currently defined by a “specialty-first” approach and a rapid shift into regional and digital spaces.
Here is the updated section for your blog, incorporating the latest 2025 Mordor Intelligence and IBISWorld figures:
Australia’s coffee culture remains a global benchmark, with the café and mobile coffee sector evolving into a high-tech, sustainability-driven industry. By the start of 2025, the number of cafes and restaurants across Australia has grown to over 55,700, reflecting a 30% increase since 2017 and a steady climb from 2024.
Market Valuation: USD $2.44 Billion (approx. AUD $3.7B) in 2025.
Employment: The café, restaurant, and takeaway sector is now the largest employing segment in Australian hospitality, supporting approximately 688,400 workers.
Future Growth: Projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.63% through 2030, reaching a valuation of USD $3.2 billion by the end of the decade.
Regional Powerhouse: Queensland is officially the fastest-growing coffee market in 2025, with a projected growth rate of 6.53%.
1. The Rise of “Ready-to-Drink” (RTD) and Cold Brew Cold-brew and RTD segments are the star performers of 2025, expanding at a CAGR of 6.94%. No longer just a summer convenience, these products have become year-round staples in retail and specialty cafes, particularly among younger demographics looking for functional, high-quality caffeine on the go.
2. Specialty Coffee Dominance The demand for conventional coffee is being overtaken by the “Specialty” movement. In 2025, specialty coffee (organic, single-origin, and direct-trade) is growing at a 7.92% CAGR—the highest in the category. Consumers are increasingly willing to pay a premium (up to $7.00 per cup) for beans that guarantee ethical sourcing and superior flavor profiles.
3. Mobile and Suburban Expansion Low-overhead entry points are trending. Mobile coffee vans and “hole-in-the-wall” kiosks have seen a surge in investment as operators move away from high-rent urban CBDs. This shift is following the workforce into suburban and regional markets, where “local-first” coffee loyalty is at an all-time high.
4. Digital Coffee Rituals 2025 has seen a “Digital Coffee Revolution.” In cities like Melbourne, mobile app ordering now accounts for over 40% of total cafe revenue. Successful franchises are those that integrate seamless pre-ordering and digital loyalty programs to increase customer retention and average spend.
Success Insight for 2025: High competition means that “just good coffee” is no longer enough. The most profitable franchises this year are those that lead with sustainability (compostable packaging and certified beans) and hyper-fast service models designed for the modern, mobile Australian consumer.
Startup: A$ 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)
In 2025, the Australian fitness industry has moved past its “recovery” phase and into a high-growth “wellness” era. The focus has shifted from simple weight loss to a holistic model that prioritizes longevity, mental health, and community.
Here is the updated section for your blog, incorporating the latest 2025 IBISWorld, AUSactive, and Les Mills data:
Australia’s fitness industry has achieved a robust turnaround in 2025, with an annual growth rate of 8.7% as the sector aligns with broader preventative healthcare trends. While the previous five years saw a CAGR decline of 1.6% due to pandemic disruptions, 2025 marks a pivotal year where 92.6% of operators now anticipate significant revenue increases.
Market Size: Approximately $3.7 Billion AUD in 2025 (IBISWorld).
Active Businesses: There are now 7,702 fitness centers across Australia, a 1.4% increase in the last 12 months.
Membership Boom: Over 6 million Australians are now engaged in gym or fitness activities, with a projected surge to 9 million users by 2027.
Employment: The sector directly employs over 33,500 people, with a high demand for registered exercise professionals.
Consumer Sentiment: 86.8% of operators are reporting steady membership growth, driven by a new wave of “Perennial” (older adult) and Gen Z participants.
1. The Rise of “Longevity” and Recovery In 2025, gyms are no longer just places to sweat—they are wellness hubs. Over 60% of Australian gyms have integrated recovery zones featuring infrared saunas, cold plunges, and compression therapy. Programs like Les Mills Thrive (low-intensity strength) are targeting “Perennials” (active older adults) to improve biological age and independence.
2. Pilates and Boutique Dominance Pilates remains the fastest-growing segment in Australia for 2025, with a staggering 84% year-on-year increase in bookings. Boutique studios focusing on Reformer Pilates, Yoga, and “Social-Hybrid” circuit training (like Hyrox-style events) are commanding premium membership rates as Australians seek community and high-touch experiences.
3. Suburban and Regional Expansion Growth is no longer centered in the CBD. In 2025, the “Suburban Gold Rush” continues as Australians favor convenience near their homes. 24/7 “High-Value Low-Price” (HVLP) models and boutique studios in regional hubs are seeing the highest ROI due to lower overheads and less saturated markets.
4. The “Omni-Fitness” Hybrid Digital integration is now a standard requirement. The most profitable 2025 franchises offer “Omnifitness”—a seamless blend of in-person training and a digital app for at-home or travel workouts. 75% of virtual fitness users now also attend in-person classes, proving that digital tools are driving gym foot traffic, not replacing it.
Investor Note: While upfront fit-out costs remain high, the shift toward recurring revenue through tech-enabled memberships and the “Exercise is Medicine” movement has made the 2025 fitness sector one of the most stable small-business investments in Australia.
This 2025 Fitness Industry Trends video provides an in-depth look at how recovery and wellness are becoming the new “anchors” for modern Australian gyms.
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)
In 2025, the Australian cleaning franchise sector has solidified its reputation as a “recession-resilient” powerhouse. No longer just a manual labor industry, it is now characterized by high-tech integration, specialized hygiene protocols, and a dominant shift toward sustainability.
Here is the updated 2025 data for your blog, reflecting the latest market size and industry shifts.
Australia’s cleaning sector is entering a new era of steady expansion. Valued at $20.2 billion AUD in 2025, the industry has successfully moved past the volatility of the pandemic years, with commercial and residential segments becoming essential pillars of the national economy.
Total Market Valuation: $20.2 Billion AUD (up from $18.05 billion in 2024).
Business Growth: There are now over 45,000 commercial cleaning businesses in Australia, a 2.4% increase from last year.
Segment Leader: Commercial cleaning dominates with a $20.1 billion market share, while residential cleaning holds a steady $1.4 billion.
Employment: The industry continues to be a major employer, with residential cleaning alone employing over 21,100 people.
Projected Growth: The market is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 5.9% through to 2034, driven by a surging demand for specialized medical and industrial sanitation.
1. The Tech-Driven “Smart Clean”
2025 has seen the widespread adoption of Janitorial Tech.
IoT & Sensors: Smart buildings now use sensors to track foot traffic, alerting cleaning teams only when a space actually needs servicing—reducing labor waste by up to 20%.
Automation: AI-powered floor scrubbers and cleaning drones for high-rise windows are becoming standard in high-margin franchise models to combat Australia’s tight labor market.
2. Sustainability as a Requirement
“Eco-friendly” is no longer a niche; it’s a contract mandate. Over 65% of Australian businesses now prioritize providers with GECA (Good Environmental Choice Australia) or Green Star certifications. Franchises using biodegradable surfactants and water-saving closed-loop systems are winning the bulk of new commercial contracts.
3. Specialization & Higher Margins
Profitability in 2025 is found in “niche” services. While general office cleaning faces fierce price competition, specialized segments like medical facility sanitation, professional mold remediation, and data center cleaning are yielding much higher margins due to the specialized training and certification required.
| Segment | Top 2025 Franchise Focus | Investment Range |
| Commercial | Urban Clean (App-integrated & contract-guaranteed) | $20,000 – $60,000 |
| Residential | V.I.P. Home Services (High brand trust & regional growth) | $15,000 – $40,000 |
| Specialized | Gutter-Vac (Safety-compliant & high-margin niche) | $40,000+ |
Success Insight for 2025: With labor shortages still a challenge, the most successful cleaning franchises this year are those that prioritize staff retention through tech-enabled upskilling (turning cleaners into “Cleaning Techs”) and maintaining premium service quality over low-price discounting.
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)
In 2025, the home maintenance sector isn’t just growing in terms of market size; it is undergoing a structural shift toward franchising. Investors are moving away from the “solo handyman” model in favor of franchised systems that offer better technology, reliability, and safety.
Here is the 2025 update for your blog, focusing on the franchise growth angle for home maintenance.
While the home maintenance market is valued at $25.52 Billion AUD in 2025, the real story is the rapid professionalization of the industry. Homeowners are moving away from the “unreliable local flyer” and toward national franchise brands that guarantee background-checked staff, transparent digital quoting, and high-quality standards.
Establishment Growth: Franchise units in the home services sector are projected to grow by 2.5% in 2025, outperforming the growth rate of independent trade businesses.
The “Reliability Premium”: 60% of Millennial and Gen-Z homeowners now report a preference for outsourcing rather than DIY, with a specific preference for franchised brands that offer mobile-app booking and secure payments.
Investor Sentiment: Private equity and sophisticated “multi-unit” investors are moving into home services, seeing it as a “recession-resilient” asset class with more stable returns than traditional retail.
1. Solving the “Trade Shortage” Crisis Australia’s skilled labor shortage remains a hurdle for solo operators. However, franchises are thriving because they provide centralized recruitment and apprenticeship programs. By pooling resources, a franchise can offer benefits and career paths that a small independent business cannot, ensuring a more stable workforce for the customer.
2. Tech-Enabled Scalability In 2025, the “Handyman with a Notepad” is being replaced by the “Franchisee with an iPad.”
Advanced CRM: Franchises use AI-driven scheduling to minimize travel time between jobs, increasing a franchisee’s daily revenue by up to 20%.
Instant Quoting: National systems allow for instant, standardized pricing, which builds immediate trust with homeowners who are tired of waiting days for a callback.
3. The Rise of Multi-Brand Portfolios A major 2025 trend is the multi-brand franchisee. We are seeing investors buy a “home services cluster”—for example, owning a Jim’s Mowing, a Gutter-Vac, and a Hire A Hubby territory in the same suburb. This allows them to cross-sell services to the same client base, drastically reducing customer acquisition costs.
4. Safety and Compliance (The NDIS Factor) With more Australians receiving support through the NDIS and Aged Care packages, there is a strict requirement for “certified and insured” service providers. Franchises, with their national compliance frameworks and police-check systems, are the first choice for government-subsidized maintenance work, a sector growing at 10.5% CAGR.
Franchise Insight: The “low barrier to entry” that once defined home maintenance has been replaced by a “high barrier to trust.” In 2025, the franchise model provides that trust instantly, allowing new owners to hit the ground running with a lead-generation machine that independent startups simply can’t match.
Investment: $30,000 – $50,000
Why it’s profitable in 2025: As Australia’s most recognized service brand, Jim’s benefits from a massive lead-generation system. In 2025, the demand for “all-in-one” home care (lawn, gutters, and pressure cleaning) is at an all-time high, allowing franchisees to cross-sell services easily.
Investment: $50,000 – $100,000
Why it’s profitable in 2025: With a shortage of skilled trades, “Handyman” services are commanding premium hourly rates. Hire A Hubby provides a secure entry point for those with DIY skills, backed by a national brand that handles the heavy lifting of marketing and insurance.
Investment: From $40,000
Why it’s profitable in 2025: This is a niche, high-margin business. With increasing climate volatility in Australia, gutter maintenance has shifted from “optional” to “essential” for home insurance compliance and bushfire safety, ensuring a steady stream of recurring seasonal work.
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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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.
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