Australia’s fast food sector is on track for robust expansion as evolving lifestyles, rising disposable incomes and digital innovation reshape how Australians eat on the go. According to industry forecasts, the Australia fast food market is expected to climb from around USD 18 billion in 2024 to USD 26 billion by 2033, representing steady growth over the next decade.
Several trends are driving this strong growth trajectory:
Convenience-Driven Demand: Busy urban lifestyles and the popularity of quick-serve options continue to push more Australians towards fast food for lunch breaks, family meals and snacks.
Digital Transformation: Mobile ordering apps, integrated loyalty programs and third-party delivery services have reshaped consumer expectations — making fast food quicker and easier to access than ever before.
Menu Innovation: Fast food isn’t just burgers and chips anymore. Healthier, plant-based choices and culturally diverse menus are expanding the appeal of quick-serve restaurants across demographic groups.
Franchise Expansion: Both international and homegrown brands are scaling up footprint in Australia, creating significant franchise investment opportunities.
For entrepreneurs and investors looking at franchise categories, the fast food segment stands out as a fertile ground for expansion:
Digital-First Franchises: Brands leveraging app-based orders and delivery partnerships are achieving faster customer reach and higher repeat-order rates.
Healthy & Specialty Concepts: There’s room to grow in segments that emphasise plant-based, gluten-free or locally sourced menu items.
Drive-Thru and Ghost Kitchens: Flexibly designed formats that prioritise speed and lower overhead costs can unlock new regional markets.
👉 Explore more in our Franchise Opportunities category to find the best fast food brands expanding in Australia.
The Australian fast food landscape features a mix of global giants and popular local franchises, including:
McDonald’s Australia – A market leader with a vast network of outlets nationwide.
KFC & Taco Bell (Yum! Brands) – Major players in chicken and Mexican-inspired categories.
Subway – Strong presence with extensive franchise penetration.
Domino’s Pizza Enterprises – Continues to innovate in delivery and menu offerings.
Guzman y Gomez & Zambrero – Homegrown chains expanding with fresh, globally inspired menus.
Red Rooster & Chicken Treat – Local favourites in the chicken segment.
These brands are not only competing for market share but also pioneering new formats and customer engagement strategies that reflect modern consumer preferences.
As the fast food market moves towards USD 26 billion by 2033, franchise investors and operators have a unique window to capitalise on shifting habits, from demand for healthier options to streamlined digital experiences. With opportunities in both metropolitan hubs like Sydney and Melbourne and emerging regional markets, the sector promises sustained innovation and consumer engagement through the next decade.
For brands planning to enter or expand in Australia, now is the time to align with trends in convenience, technology and evolving Aussie taste profiles.
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