The Australian franchising sector continues to evolve, and one of the most powerful drivers of that evolution is the growing influence of women across every level of the industry. From franchise owners and executives to mentors, leaders, and innovators, women are helping shape a more inclusive and connected future for franchising in Australia.
At the forefront of this movement is Vanessa Wilmot, current Chairperson of Women in Franchising Australia, who has spent many years working within the franchise sector and witnessing firsthand the transformation taking place.
“Women in Franchising is important to me, because empowering and supporting women strengthens our industry, and helps build a more inclusive, diverse, and successful franchise community,” says Wilmot.
For Wilmot, the initiative is about far more than networking events or industry recognition. It is about creating meaningful opportunities, encouraging collaboration, and ensuring future generations entering franchising feel supported and empowered to succeed.
“I have been in the franchise industry for a long time, and what has been created as part of the Women In Franchising community has been incredible,” she explains. “I have seen firsthand the impact that supporting, connecting, and championing women — and men — in environments where everyone feels welcome can have on both individuals and the broader franchise community.”
Operating as a national committee under the Franchise Council of Australia (FCA), Women in Franchising brings together representatives from every Australian state with a shared goal of supporting diversity, inclusion, and professional development throughout the sector.
The committee’s work focuses on several key priorities, including promoting the success of women within franchising, increasing visibility and awareness of women’s contributions, and helping influence FCA policy on issues impacting women in business and franchising.
Importantly, the committee also aims to create spaces where honest conversations can occur around the challenges and barriers that still exist today.
“By sharing stories of women’s journeys in franchising, including the challenges and the successes, we can help pave the way for the next generation,” says Wilmot. “This creates an industry where everyone feels welcome, supported, and empowered to succeed.”
That sense of community and connection has become one of the defining strengths of Women in Franchising Australia. The initiative continues to foster environments where people can build genuine professional relationships, access mentorship opportunities, and participate in conversations that help shape the future of the sector.
Ultimately, Wilmot says the initiative is about creating a stronger industry for everyone.
“We see Women In Franchising as a community where everyone is welcome,” she says. “It is about creating open and supportive environments, opportunities for genuine connections, that help drive diversity and inclusivity in franchising and beyond.”
The importance of those conversations has never been more relevant. Across the Australian business landscape, organisations are increasingly recognising the value of diverse leadership teams, inclusive cultures, and equitable opportunities for growth. Franchising, with its unique blend of entrepreneurship, leadership, and community engagement, is particularly well positioned to lead by example.
Women now play critical roles throughout the franchise sector — from multi-unit franchise owners and CEOs to operations leaders, marketers, trainers, and business development specialists. Yet despite this progress, industry leaders acknowledge there is still more work to be done to ensure pathways to leadership and business ownership remain accessible and visible.
Women in Franchising Australia continues to address these challenges through education, advocacy, and industry events designed to inspire and connect professionals across the country.
One of the most anticipated initiatives each year is Women in Franchising Month, held annually throughout August. The month-long program features a series of events across Australia, bringing together franchise professionals for networking, panel discussions, keynote presentations, and professional development opportunities.
“These events have guest speakers, panel discussions, and cover important topics in business and franchising that are relevant not only to women, but to everyone in the sector,” Wilmot says. “They are also fantastic networking opportunities and tend to be very popular events which we encourage everyone to attend.”
This year’s calendar of events reflects a strong focus on resilience, leadership, adaptability, and growth — themes that continue to resonate throughout the franchise industry.
Victoria will host a breakfast event on Wednesday 5 August at Amora Riverwalk Richmond, focusing on the theme “Resilience: Thriving Through Challenge and Change.”
In New South Wales, industry professionals will gather on Thursday 6 August at HWLE Sydney in Martin Place for an afternoon session titled “Adapt. Lead. Evolve: Women Who are Redefining Franchising.”
Western Australia’s event, held on Thursday 13 August at Mt Lawley Golf Club, will explore the theme “Making Lemonade out of Lemons,” while South Australia’s breakfast event at the National Wine Centre on Tuesday 25 August will focus on “Resilience in Unexpected Ways.”
Queensland will also host an afternoon event on Thursday 20 August at the Brisbane Marriott Hotel.
Together, the events provide valuable opportunities for franchise professionals to connect, learn, and celebrate the achievements of women across the sector.
For Wilmot, the continued growth of Women in Franchising Australia reflects the strength of the broader franchise community itself — an industry increasingly committed to collaboration, diversity, and supporting future leaders.
“I am honoured as the current Chairperson for Women In Franchising in Australia to serve alongside such incredible individuals who are so passionate and committed,” she says. “This includes the committee members, the FCA leadership team — particularly Jay Westbury and Lisa Saville — and the FCA board representatives.”
As the franchise sector continues to evolve, initiatives like Women in Franchising are helping ensure the industry’s future is one built on inclusion, opportunity, and shared success.
For more information on Women in Franchising Month events or to book tickets, visit the Franchise Council of Australia website https://franchise.org.au/
Quote: Jay Westbury – FCA CEO
“Women in Franchising” makes an incredible impact by amplifying the significant roles women play across the franchising eco-system in Australia and has enabled young women to identify role models and aspire to be contributors and future leaders in franchising. It is important that the FCA supports the “Women in Franchising” community at every opportunity we can”
Quote: by Marcel Lal - FCA Board Director & ERA Group Global CDO
“As the FCA Board lead for Women In Franchising, I'm not only incredibly proud to be involved in this key endeavour within the franchise sector, but also excited to see the growing awareness which is being created. It's just so important and ultimately a responsibility for all of us as leaders, both male and female, to continue to develop and celebrate the achievements of women in their professional journey”.
Vanessa Wilmot
Managing Director, Geotech Information Services
Chairperson for FCA Women In Franchising in Australia
Winner 2026 FCA Award: Outstanding Contribution of an Individual to Franchising
Vanessa Wilmot is the Managing Director of Geotech Information Services, with more than 25 years of experience in data analytics, market research, and consulting within the franchise sector. Vanessa combines strategic insight with deep industry knowledge to deliver impactful, data-driven network planning solutions for clients across a diverse range of industries throughout Australia, New Zealand, and internationally. A passionate advocate for women in business, Vanessa currently serves as the FCA Women in Franchising Chairperson for Australia. Having spent 10 years on the Victorian committee, and now also in the national leadership role, Vanessa is committed to supporting others in their professional development. Through Women In Franchising Vanessa is dedicated to fostering genuine opportunities for people to connect, collaborate, support one another, and inspire the franchise community.
Aroha Leigh, Director Global Product, Lift Brands Inc
Aroha Leigh is the Director of Global Product for Snap Fitness, one of the world’s largest 24/7 fitness franchise networks. In this role, she leads the strategic direction, standardisation and evolution of the Snap Fitness physical product across 3,000 clubs in 26 countries, serving more than 1.5 million members globally. Beyond her executive responsibilities, Aroha is a mother of four who navigates international travel, cross-border negotiations and global leadership responsibilities while operating within predominantly male executive forums. Women in Franchising is important to Aroha because increasing female representation in leadership helps expand what future generations of women believe is possible, while strengthening the franchising sector as a whole.
Bev Taylor – InXpress Franchisee owner
Beverley (Bev) Taylor is the owner of an InXpress franchise, which she has successfully operated for over 13 years. She has built a high-performing business while making significant contributions to the franchising sector. Bev has served for over 7 years on the FCA Women in Franchising Committee and is an active committee member within the InXpress network. Bev has recently also joined the FCA QLD Chapter Committee.
Having worked in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Bev is a passionate advocate for increasing female representation, fostering inclusion, and creating leadership opportunities across franchising.
Cristina Cecere, Director, DW Fox Tucker Lawyers
Cristina Cecere is a highly experienced franchising lawyer with more than 20 years of expertise across franchising, commercial and property law. Having worked both in-house for major national businesses and in private practice, Cristina brings a unique commercial perspective to her legal advice. She advises franchisors and franchisees on all aspects of franchising, including compliance, franchise agreements, dispute resolution, acquisitions, and leasing. Known for her practical, strategic, and client-focused approach, Cristina helps businesses navigate Australia’s evolving franchising landscape with confidence. Cristina is a proud member of the Franchise Council of Australia’s Women in Franchising SA Committee and is passionate about supporting and championing the advancement of women within the franchising sector.
Emily Lucas, Special Counsel, HWLE Lawyers
Emily Lucas is a Special Counsel at HWLE Lawyers. She has extensive expertise in Commercial Law, particularly in Franchising and is recognised for delivering strategic, practical legal advice and for building trusted, long-term client partnerships. Since 2023, Emily has been recognised in Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch, and in 2026 she was the award joint winner for Lawyers Weekly 30 Under 30 – Competition, Trade & Regulation, reflecting her standing as a respected and emerging leader in her field. Emily is committed to ensuring that 'Women in Franchising' is diverse and is reflective of all women in franchising, not just those holding C-suite positions. Recognised for efforts for her work in this regard, Emily is the co-winner for the FCA’s Franchise Woman of the Year award for 2026.
Leah Dengate
National Franchise Manager – Snap-on Tools ANZ
Leah Dengate is a National Franchise Manager with a career spanning banking, compliance and franchising. After returning to university in her 40s to complete a business degree, she transitioned into franchising through roles in tax services and franchise support, later moving into national leadership positions. She brings a practical understanding of franchise operations and compliance developed across a range of roles within the industry.
As a committee member of Women in Franchising NSW, Leah values the role it plays in supporting confidence, connection and greater opportunities for women across all industries.
Louise Wolf, Principal MST Lawyers
Louise Wolf has been a lawyer in the franchising sector for over 25 years. With a client-centred approach, she provides strategic legal solutions to businesses ensuring compliance and protecting their interests. Her experience, keen insights and practical approach make her a great fit for franchisors and franchisees alike. Louise is the chair of the FCA Legal Symposium Committee. Louise’s work with the Victorian Women in Franchising Committee has helped create WIF’s reputation for hosting meaningful breakfast events that showcase well known and well-respected people within the franchising community where everyone can feel connected and inspired.
Tracy Eaton -Director, Franchise Ready WA
Tracy has worked in the franchise sector for 21 years- in franchisor roles with McDonald’s, as a supplier, and now as a franchise partner with Franchise Ready, (Global Franchise Awards 2026 Best Franchise Consultancy and APAC Franchise Champion).
She’s also been an independent consultant, trainer and wellness practitioner, across 30+ industries.
With a passion for people, Tracy’s approach is collaborative, delivering on business owners’ vision to franchise, and recruiting franchisees for aligned win/win outcomes.
Women In Franchising has a vital role to increase the individual and collective voice of women, to evolve and expand the Australian franchise sector, here and globally.
National Franchise Manager,
ANZ Commercial Bank
Ruth Zhou is a seasoned banking professional with over 13 years of experience, where she has excelled in frontline management, credit roles, and franchise development. Currently serving as National Franchise Manager at ANZ Commercial Bank, Ruth works closely with Australia’s top franchise brands to support their growth strategies and deliver impactful financial solutions. Ruth’s diverse background in banking has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of both operational and strategic aspects of the business, enabling her to deliver value-driven outcomes for her clients and stakeholders. Ruth’s passion for supporting SME businesses, particularly in the franchising space, drives her commitment to creating opportunities for long-term success. As a committee member of the Franchise Council Australia WA, her mission is to bridge the knowledge gap between franchises and financiers, provide critical insights, and collaborate with industry experts to strengthen and support the broader franchise system.
Seva Surmei
Partner, Lynch Meyer Lawyers
Seva is an expert franchising lawyer based in Adelaide and works with franchisors with local, national and international operations. Seva advises clients that are establishing, developing or operating franchise networks.
Seva complements her work in franchising with experience in property and general commercial transactions.
Seva has been named by Best Lawyers as ‘Lawyer of the Year’ for Franchise Law in Adelaide for several years.
Seva is a committee member of Franchise Council of Australia’s South Australian Chapter and Women in Franchising Group.
Being part of the Women in Franchising group has been important to Seva as it is a network where women from across Australia and across various industries can connect, collaborate and share similar experiences.
Helen Kay | Managing Director
Rise Legal Business and Franchise Lawyers
Helen Kay is the owner and Managing Director of Rise Legal Business Lawyers and a senior commercial lawyer with extensive experience in franchising, business and commercial law. Helen works with franchisors, franchisees and growing businesses on franchise agreements, disclosure documents, business sales and purchases, commercial contracts, leasing, structuring and client agreements. She is passionate about helping business owners understand their rights, manage risk and build stronger legal foundations from start-up through to sale. Women in Franchising is important to Helen because strong female leadership, practical support and greater representation create a more diverse, collaborative and resilient franchise sector.
Racha Abboud, Partner- Commercial at Baybridge
Racha Abboud is a Partner at Baybridge and co-leader of the Commercial and Franchise team. A trusted strategic advisor to businesses across Australia and internationally, Racha works with some of the country’s most prominent brands.
Racha is known for challenging conventional approaches and delivering commercially focused legal and advisory solutions, combining deep technical expertise with practical, results-driven insight to support clients through growth, transformation and complex commercial challenges.
Racha is passionate about creating greater visibility and leadership opportunities for women in franchising, and supporting pathways for women to thrive in what has traditionally been a male-dominated industry.
Her professional excellence has been recognised, including being named a finalist for Lawyers Weekly Commercial Partner of the Year (2020), Partner of the Year – Mentoring (Lawyers Weekly and Australian Law Awards, 2023), and Corporate Partner of the Year (Lawyers Weekly, 2024). Racha has been recognised in the 2025, 2026 and 2027 editions of The Best Lawyers in Australia for Franchise Law.
CHAIRPERSON: Vanessa Wilmot, Managing Director, Geotech Information Services
VIC REPRESENTATIVES: Vanessa Wilmot, Managing Director, Geotech Information Services Louise Wolf, Principal, MST Lawyers
NSW REPRESENTATIVES: Racha Abboud, Partner- Commercial at Baybridge Emily Lucas, Special Counsel, HWLE Lawyers Leah Dengate, National Franchise Manager, Snap-on Tools ANZ
QLD REPRESENTATIVES: Bev Taylor, InXpress Franchisee Owner Helen Kay, Managing Director, Rise Legal Business and Franchise Lawyers Aroha Leigh, Director Global Product, Lift Brands Inc
SA REPRESENTATIVES: Seva Surmei, Partner, Lynch Meyer Lawyers Cristina Cecere, Director, DW Fox Tucker Lawyers
WA REPRESENTATIVES: Ruth Zhou, National Franchise Manager, ANZ Commercial Bank Tracy Eaton, Director, Franchise Ready WA
