New Small Business Minister Nick Sherry has confirmed the Federal Government favours a hands-off approach to the Franchising Code of Conduct for the next few years.

To provide the sector with the stability and confidence it deserves, the Government doesnÍt intend to review the code again before 2013,î he told delegates at the National Franchise Convention.

The Minister spoke up against state-based franchising laws being proposed for South Australia and Western Australia but said he was unable to comment further on the proposed laws until he had seen draft legislation.

Sherry was a keynote speaker at the 2010 convention, which got underway with more than 500 delegates attending.

Delegates today heard sessions relevant to franchise development including business planning for franchisees, site selection, lease negotiations, IT trends, brand protection and international growth plans.

The convention continues tomorrow, and ends with the annual awards celebrating franchising excellence.