8:00am

Registrations Open

8:45am – 9:00am

Opening Remarks

9:00am – 9:55am

The Future of Franchising: Trends, Opportunities, and Challenges in the Evolving Australian Market

Join renowned demographer Bernard Salt as he delves into the transformative trends shaping the future of franchising in Australia. Bernard will provide data-driven insights into the evolving demographics, economic shifts, and social changes influencing the franchise sector in this compelling session. From urbanisation and population growth to shifting consumer behaviours and technological advancements, Bernard will outline how these forces create new opportunities and challenges for franchise owners and operators.

Gain actionable insights to help navigate the changing landscape, adapt to consumer expectations, and anticipate future trends. With Bernard’s engaging storytelling and expertise, this session is designed to inspire franchise leaders to think strategically about growth, innovation, and resilience in a rapidly evolving market.

Bernard Salt AM

9:55am – 10:40am

How leading brands see the economy, the market, risks and opportunities.

With decades of collective experience in retail and franchising, this panel brings together leaders who have navigated the evolving challenges of the economy and market dynamics. Drawing from their extensive backgrounds, they will share insights into market conditions, consumer behavior, competition, and the factors influencing their strategic decisions. Discover the key stories and strategies behind the sustained success of some of the most remarkable businesses in the industry.

12:10pm – 12:55pm

Growth, change management and challenging franchisee relationships in tough times

In a competitive marketplace, an outstanding brand and a vibrant culture are critical for creating distinction, building customer loyalty, and achieving sustainable growth. This session will explore the dynamic relationship between brand identity and company culture and how they can be leveraged to make a lasting impact on customers and employees alike.

The franchisor panel will provide unique and invaluable insights into the management of high-growth businesses that operate in a competitive market.  Navigating change requires vision and leadership, strategy, effective communication and franchisee support.  New ideas are not always enthusiastically endorsed.  Learn from those with front-line experience.  This session is ideal for leaders looking to enhance their brand’s presence, strengthen internal culture, and set themselves apart in a crowded market.

2:00pm – 3:20am

Quiet Conversations

Step into Quiet Conversations, an interactive session that offers franchise leaders the chance to explore key industry challenges and opportunities through rotating topical table discussions. Featuring 15 diverse topics led by experienced facilitators, this format allows delegates to engage in focused, small-group dialogues on a range of critical issues, from cybersecurity and AI to brand expansion and private equity strategies. Each table provides a unique space to dive into issues that matter most, with themes such as Mitigating Cyber Security, Unlocking Enterprise Value, AI – Servant Turned Tyrant, Crisis Management – Planning and Preparation, Implementing Change Management Programs, Taking your Brand Overseas, Finance Access and Maintaining Large Multi-Unit Operators as Advocates.

This session is designed for leaders who want to explore strategic, actionable insights in an informal, conversational setting. Rotate through topics that resonate with your interests, share experiences, and connect with peers while gaining fresh perspectives to enhance your franchise operations and strategy.

3:40pm – 4:25pm

Leading with Impact: Mastering the Art of Modern Leadership

In a world where complexity reigns and time is scarce, leadership as we know it is no longer enough. Enter Dr Kirstin Ferguson, whose provocative and engaging keynote will shatter conventional thinking and spark a revolution in how we lead.

Through captivating storytelling, powerful video moments, and her no-nonsense, relatable style, Kirstin challenges leaders to ask the hard question: Is your leadership truly fit for today’s demands? Drawing from her bestselling book, Head & Heart: The Art of Modern Leadership, Kirstin will redefine leadership by fusing analytical prowess with emotional intelligence.

This isn’t just a talk; it’s a personal leadership intervention. Attendees will actively participate, completing their own Head & Heart Leader Scale™, walking away with a customised report and a roadmap to elevate their leadership game.

Expect bold insights, practical tools, and gripping stories from battlefields to boardrooms that bring modern leadership to life. Whether you’re leading a team of five or five thousand, Kirstin’s message will equip you to lead with courage, empathy, and a strategic mindset.

Key Disruptions:

• Break down the core elements of head and heart leadership: curiosity, wisdom, humility, and courage.
• Personalised Head & Heart Leader Scale reports for actionable self-improvement.
• Real-world examples and transformative case studies that demonstrate leadership in action.

This keynote will leave you inspired, challenged, and ready to lead differently in today’s fast-paced, high-stakes world.

Dr Kirstin Ferguson AM

4:25pm – 4:30am

Closing Remarks