Australia's franchise sector is thriving, offering individuals a solid path to business ownership with proven models. But before diving into a fitness club, fast food outlet, or a bookkeeping franchise, understanding how franchise accounting works is essential.
This article outlines how franchise fees are treated, how to record them, typical costs, and how an expert like The Franchise Accountant can help you succeed.
What Is Franchise Accounting?
Franchise accounting refers to the specialized financial practices involved in owning or operating a franchise. Unlike independent businesses, franchises must report and manage:
Initial franchise fees
Ongoing royalty payments
Marketing levies
Compliance reporting
Franchise disclosure requirements
All of these must be handled accurately to meet franchisee obligations and maintain profitability.
Is a Franchise an Asset or a Liability?
A franchise is classified as an intangible asset in accounting. When you pay an initial franchise fee to a franchisor, that payment secures the right to operate under their brand—an asset with value that can be amortized over time.
However, ongoing obligations such as:
Royalty fees,
Marketing fees, and
Debt obligations
are recorded as liabilities or operating expenses, depending on how they’re structured in the franchise agreement.
How Are Franchise Fees Treated in Accounting?
Franchise fees fall under two categories:
1. Initial Franchise Fee
Capitalized as an intangible asset
Amortized over the life of the franchise agreement
2. Ongoing Franchise Fees
Treated as recurring operating expenses
Recorded monthly, quarterly, or annually based on the agreement
How Do You Record Franchise Fees?
Recording franchise fees accurately involves:
Identifying all upfront and recurring costs
Classifying correctly between assets and expenses
Aligning with Australian accounting standards (AASB 138)
An accountant experienced in franchise bookkeeping ensures the proper classification and amortization of these fees—this helps avoid errors in tax reporting and audits.
What Does Franchise Bookkeeping Involve?
Franchise bookkeeping isn’t just about income and expenses—it includes:
Tracking franchise rights and amortization
Recording royalty and marketing fees
Payroll processing (especially for staff-heavy franchises like gyms or food chains)
Inventory management (relevant for fast food chains)
BAS, GST, and PAYG reporting
Cash flow tracking by location (for multi-unit franchises)
Franchise owners are often surprised at how complex the financial reporting can be. That’s where specialists like The Franchise Accountant play a vital role.
How Much Do Franchises Cost in Australia?
Franchise costs vary depending on industry, brand reputation, and location.
Average Franchise Investment Ranges:
Franchise Type
Initial Cost (AUD)
Fast Food Chains
$300,000 – $1,000,000+
Gym/Fitness Clubs
$150,000 – $500,000
Bookkeeping Services
$20,000 – $100,000
Mobile Services
$10,000 – $50,000
Common Franchise Expenses Include:
Franchise licensing fee
Business setup (fit-out, stock, equipment)
Legal and accounting services
Working capital
Marketing contributions
Knowing how to budget for these costs is essential—especially when royalty fees and hidden charges are involved.
How Much Does a Bookkeeping Franchise Cost?
Bookkeeping franchises are perfect for professionals who want flexibility and a lower capital requirement.
Typical Investment:
Franchise Fee: $10,000 – $40,000
Total Cost: $30,000 – $80,000
Low overhead, home-based setup
Popular bookkeeping franchises include:
First Class Accounts
TaxAssist Accountants
Shoebox Books
These models often include training, systems, and lead generation tools—ideal for those entering the industry.
Looking for a Franchise to Buy? Explore These Popular Options
Australia’s franchise landscape is vast. If you’re exploring options, here are a few high-performing categories:
1. Fitness Club Franchise
Brands like F45, Snap Fitness, and Anytime Fitness dominate this space. You get:
Recurring revenue from memberships
High brand recall
Strong franchisee support
2. Fast Food Chains Australia
Think McDonald’s, KFC, Guzman y Gomez, or Hungry Jack’s. Though high in investment, they offer:
Established systems
Strong marketing support
Fast ROI (in high-traffic areas)
3. Service-Based Models
Cleaning franchises
Tutoring businesses
Pet care
Car detailing
These often require lower upfront capital and offer quicker breakeven points.
Common Franchise Accounting Mistakes
Avoid these pitfalls:
Not separating personal and business finances
Ignoring amortization schedules
Forgetting to budget for royalty fees
Poor inventory tracking (for fast food)
Missing ATO lodgement deadlines
Working with a franchise-specific accountant like the professionals at The Franchise Accountant ensures these errors don’t derail your business.
Why Work with a Franchise Accountant?
Franchise accounting is different from general business bookkeeping. Here's why a franchise-focused accountant is essential:
Understands franchise fee structures
Assists with cash flow forecasting
Helps interpret Franchise Disclosure Documents
Guides on expansion planning (multi-unit setups)
Ensures ATO and legal compliance
With cloud-based systems and industry-specific insights, The Franchise Accountant makes your franchise journey smoother and more profitable.
Conclusion
Whether you're buying your first franchise or managing a growing multi-unit operation, franchise accounting is not something to overlook. From handling franchise fees to ensuring compliance, professional accounting support ensures your success.
Looking to buy a bookkeeping franchise, invest in fitness club franchises, or join a fast food chain in Australia? Make sure your accounting is airtight from day one.
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