Franchises over $1 million in Australia
What you can do with this budget
This capital buys the largest, highest-turnover formats — or several outlets at once. Property, major fit-outs and equipment dominate the cost, and structures often involve multiple entities, management teams and sometimes property ownership alongside the operating business.
Buyers at this level are typically career franchisees, family offices or investment groups building a portfolio for yield and eventual resale, not owner-operators buying a job.
What kind of business suits over $1 million
What's included — where the money goes
| Franchise, development & master fees | Premium fees, plus development or master-franchise rights where applicable. |
| Property & major fit-out | Large builds, and sometimes freehold or long-lease property. |
| Equipment & goodwill | Full commercial equipment, and goodwill on any established resales. |
| Working capital & management | Significant reserves plus a management structure to run the portfolio. |
Pros & things to watch
- Investor-grade returns and genuine portfolio scale.
- Access to a brand's flagship sites and development rights.
- Professional, manager-run operations designed to be passive.
- Strong resale market for well-run large-format outlets.
- Rigorous franchisor vetting of experience, net worth and funding.
- Complex structures need expert legal, tax and property advice.
- Concentration risk — spread capital and verify every outlet's numbers.
How to fund it
Acquisitions here are structured with substantial equity and commercial or property-backed lending, often involving corporate finance and sometimes co-investors. Lenders and franchisors will expect audited financials, a management plan and a strong personal track record.
Run your numbers with our free cost, ROI and affordability calculators.
How to find and secure one
- Present an investor profile with proof of funds, experience and portfolio intent.
- Engage directly with franchisors offering flagship, master or multi-unit opportunities.
- Commission full commercial, legal and property due diligence.
- Structure the deal with corporate advisers, and confirm development schedules and territory rights.
Franchises over $1 million — FAQs
What are the most expensive franchises in Australia?
Large drive-thru restaurants, big-box gyms and retail, and childcare centres are among the most expensive, often exceeding $1 million once property and fit-out are included. Multi-unit portfolios run higher still.
Do franchisors choose who gets these opportunities?
Yes. Flagship, master and multi-unit rights are reserved for vetted operators with proven experience, substantial net worth and confirmed funding.
Can these be run as passive investments?
With a professional management structure, large-format and multi-unit franchises can be largely passive — but they still require strong oversight and governance.