I am in dispute with my franchisor, what do I do?

There is a mandatory dispute resolution procedure in the Franchising Code of Conduct. Either the franchisor or the franchisee can commence this procedure at any time. This procedure ensures that if you are able to meet with the franchisor, to be heard and to attempt to resolve the disupte. Initially the procedure involves the parties attempting to resolve the disupte themselves, but provides for a mediation if the parties have not been able to reslove the matter themselves. A mediation is an oppotunity to for the parties to meet and negotiate in a controlled environment without the threat of anyone imposing an outcome but with the benefit of an external party facilitating the negotiation. You are entitled to legal representation at the mediation.