Franchise Law
PC 
Philip Colman
Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2026 Awarded Practice Areas
Biography
Phil Colman – Principal, Dispute Resolution & Litigation
With over 40 years’ experience as a commercial litigation lawyer, Phil Colman is a Principal at MST Lawyers, where he leads the Dispute Resolution and Litigation team and serves on the firm’s Executive Committee. An Accredited Specialist in Commercial Litigation since 1993 and a Nationally Accredited Mediator, Phil is widely recognised for his strategic, practical advice and his ability to guide clients through complex disputes efficiently and cost-effectively.
Phil is nationally and internationally regarded for his expertise in franchising disputes, commercial contracts, competition and consumer law, insolvency, and regulatory matters. He has successfully acted in numerous high-profile and precedent-setting cases, and is regularly invited to speak at legal symposia and Bar Association conferences around the world.
Recognised by Who’s Who Legal as Australia’s leading franchising disputes and litigation lawyer, Phil is also a long-standing contributor to the legal profession through committee leadership, mentoring, and thought leadership. He is passionate about developing the next generation of litigators and continues to play an active role in shaping the practice of commercial litigation at MST Lawyers.
Overview
- Law Institute of Victoria - Accredited Specialist
- Law Council of Australia - Member since 1981
- Law Institute of Victoria - Accredited Specialist
- Law Council of Australia - Member since 1981
Client Testimonials
Awards & Focus
Recognized in The Best Lawyers in Australia™ 2026 for work in:
- Franchise Law
Additional Areas of Practice:
- Alternative Dispute Resolution
- Litigation
- Insolvency and Reorganization Law
Awards:
Who's Who Legal – Franchising Experts
2015, 2016 & 2017 – John Sier, Philip Colman, and Raynia Theodore recognised as leading franchising legal experts
Best Lawyers in Australia - Recognised for Franchise Law
News & Media
Additional Information
Q&A
MST Lawyers has a long and proud history, having grown from a small firm founded in 1959, into a dynamic mid-tier commercial and private client legal practice. Our team of principals, lawyers and support staff are the driving force behind our ongoing growth and success.
Over many years, we have developed global networks to further support and assist clients domestically and internationally.
MST Lawyers service a diverse range of clients, ranging from individuals, SMEs, national and international corporations (including publicly listed corporations), national retail groups including franchise groups, many of whom are household names throughout Australia and the world.
We have a wealth of knowledge and experience in a range of diverse practice areas including:
- Corporate advisory
- Commercial Law
- Franchising Law
- Dispute Resolution and Litigation
- Insolvency and Restructuring
- Intellectual Property and Trademarks
- Privacy
- Employment and Workplace Law
- Family and Relationships Law
- Wills and Estates
- Aged Care and Retirement
- Conveyancing
- Property and Leasing
why choose US?
We are dedicated to your success.
Our success is built on a foundation of respect, excellence and dedication to both clients and staff. We’re proud of our accolades and strive to make a meaningful difference for everyone we serve.
Award-Winning Excellence
Our firm boasts significant expertise, having won numerous awards, with several principals accredited and acknowledged in prominent legal directories.
Personal Attention
Our size is our strength. At MST Lawyers, our partners and lawyers give personal attention to every matter, ensuring your legal needs are met with care and dedication.
Multidisplinary Practice Areas
From private clients to corporations, we offer a wide range of legal services equipped to handle any legal challenge.
Commitment to Clients and Staff
We treat everyone with the utmost respect. At MST Lawyers, we focus on delivering exceptional service and practical solutions for all legal matters.
- How is a franchise dispute resolved?
Most franchise disputes start with internal discussions or mediation, which is mandatory under the Franchising Code. If unresolved, you may need to proceed to arbitration or court. MST Lawyers has experience at all levels of dispute resolution. - What is the Franchising Code of Conduct and why is it important?
It’s a mandatory industry code under Australian law that sets out rights, obligations, and dispute resolution processes for franchisors and franchisees. Breaching the Code can have serious legal consequences. - Can I recover losses if I’ve been misled by a franchisor?
Possibly. If you were misled before signing a franchise agreement, you may have a claim under Australian Consumer Law for misleading or deceptive conduct. Our team can assess whether you have a case. - I’ve received a breach notice—what should I do?
Don’t ignore it. A breach notice can be the first step toward termination. It’s essential to get legal advice quickly to understand your rights, obligations, and how best to respond. - What if I’m being pressured to sign a new agreement?
You should always seek independent legal advice before signing any new or updated franchise agreement. We can help you understand the implications and negotiate terms if needed. - Can MST Lawyers represent me if I’m in a different state?
Yes. MST Lawyers regularly advises franchisees and franchisors across Australia and internationally. We can assist you regardless of your location. - How can MST Lawyers help with my franchise dispute?
Our franchising lawyers are recognised experts in franchise law and dispute resolution. We provide practical, strategic advice and strong representation—whether you're trying to resolve the issue quickly or need to take formal legal action. - How can MST Lawyers help with dispute resolution and litigation?
We provide expert legal representation, strategic negotiation, and tailored dispute resolution strategies to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
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