Billson named as new FCA chair

Mr Billson's appointment to lead the FCA Board is aimed at further boosting vitality in the franchising sector with the FCA’s mission to support the growth and success of franchising in Australia.

Mr Billson said he is keen to continue to support entrepreneurial women and men in the Australian economy in his post-political life and believes the FCA Board role is an excellent fit for his skills, experiences and ambition to continue to 'energise enterprise'.

He has long been supportive of franchising, including introducing reforms aimed at maintaining a mutually supportive relationship between franchisors and franchisees.

"Franchising is a wonderful model for entrepreneurship where people can be in their own business but not be on their own for this commercial journey," Mr Billson said.

"The experience and know-how made available by franchise systems and the drive and entrepreneurship of franchisees combined to make franchising a very resilient business model during and post-GFC.

"With improved business conditions, now is the time to take Australia's leading role in franchising to the next level and grow the number of first-class systems, investors and livelihoods made possible by franchising.”

Mr Billson said he is excited to be able to work with the FCA Board, executive team and membership to build on the positive momentum in franchising by continuing to nurture confidence in this model of commerce.

"There is considerable scope to expand the appeal of franchising, particularly to the increasing number of women and young people looking to ‘have a go’ in their own business, by adding to the 79,000 independently owned and operated franchised outlets.”

In addition to Mr Billson's board appointment, the FCA will shortly be appointing a new CEO with the board keen to reset, renew and re-energise the value, contribution and representation of the FCA.