Ready to join Australia’s leading bubble tea franchise?
Wondering how to apply for Chatime franchise in Australia? You’re in the right place. Chatime has fast become a household name, serving up over 180 million cups and counting. With 150+ stores nationwide and new opportunities popping up across metro and regional areas, now’s the time to ride the T-Brewery wave.
This guide walks you through the complete franchise application process—step-by-step. Whether you’re an experienced operator or a first-time business owner, we’ll cover everything from financial requirements to the timeline, documentation, and what Chatime looks for in a franchise partner. You’ll also get links to key pages so you can move forward with confidence.
Let’s brew your business future.
Chatime Franchise Application Requirements
Before you dive into the application, it’s essential to understand what Chatime expects from potential franchise partners. Their model is open to people from all walks of life, but there are some non-negotiables.
Financial requirements
To get started, you’ll need approximately $250,000. This covers your fit-out, equipment, training, marketing, and other startup essentials. Chatime’s current Project 250 offer packages this investment level to help fast-track approvals and setup.
Liquid capital and equity
You’ll need to show that you have access to at least 50% of the total cost—either in cash or equity (such as home ownership). The remainder can be financed, with Chatime accredited through ANZ to help streamline funding.
Experience and personal qualities
You don’t need to be a hospitality veteran, but you do need strong business instincts, a customer-first mindset, and a willingness to follow a proven system. Chatime wants partners who bring energy, consistency, and community focus.
Location and territory
You can propose your own site or express interest in territories currently available. Chatime supports site research and final approval, focusing on shopping centres, CBDs, and high-foot-traffic areas.
Learn more about why Chatime is a smart franchise choice.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Applying for a Chatime franchise isn’t a one-click deal—it’s a structured process designed to ensure you’re set up for long-term success. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Enquiry and info pack
Start by submitting a short form via the Become a Franchisee page. You’ll get access to the Franchise Information Pack and a call from the team to discuss your goals.
Step 2: Full application + deposit
You’ll be invited to complete a detailed application form and pay a refundable $3,300 deposit. This shows you’re serious and allows Chatime to begin site assessments and financial screening.
Step 3: Financial and background checks
Chatime will ask for documentation confirming your ability to fund the business. If you’re applying for finance, they’ll guide you through options, including pre-approval pathways with ANZ.
Step 4: Interview and in-store immersion
You’ll meet with the operations team and spend time in a working store to understand the systems, daily rhythm, and team culture.
Step 5: Territory selection and approval
Work closely with Chatime’s property team to lock in a site. Once that’s done, you’ll pitch your business plan to the executive team for sign-off.
Step 6: Sign the franchise agreement
Once approved, you’ll sign the legal agreements and move into onboarding. Expect full support with store design, staff recruitment, training, and your grand opening launch.
You can find the full outline of the journey on the application page.
Required Documents and Information
Chatime’s franchise approval process is thorough. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare:
Proof of funds – Recent bank statements or mortgage documents to confirm your 50% equity position.
Financial statements – A snapshot of your income, assets, liabilities, and any other financial commitments.
Business resume or profile – Even if you’re not from hospo, show leadership, operations, or customer service experience.
Personal references – Two or three character references who can vouch for your reliability and commitment.
Proposed site details – If you have a location in mind, include foot-traffic estimates, lease discussions, and nearby competitors.
Photo ID and background checks – Standard part of the verification process.
Business plan draft – Chatime provides a template to help you forecast sales, outline your staffing plan, and map out local marketing efforts.
For more detail, visit the Franchise FAQs section.
Application Timeline and What to Expect
Every applicant moves at their own pace, but here’s a typical timeline:
Week 1–2: Enquiry, info pack, full application and deposit
Week 3–5: Financial screening, interviews, site planning
Week 6–8: Final approvals and franchise agreement
Month 3–6: Training, fit-out, team hire
Month 6–12: Open for business
Throughout the process, Chatime’s team will keep in regular contact to update you on progress, provide guidance, and help you stay on track. You’ll also receive a franchisee onboarding checklist to make sure nothing gets missed.
Once your store opens, you’re not left on your own—Chatime’s field team continues to support your growth with marketing, training, and operational tools.
Required Documents and Information
Make sure you have:
Proof of funds (recent bank or mortgage statements) showing at least 50 percent of your investment.
Financial statements outlining income, assets and liabilities.
Resume or business profile (leadership, operations or customer-service experience).
Two personal references vouching for your reliability.
Proposed site details (foot-traffic data, lease status, competitor analysis).
Photo ID and clearance for background checks.
Business-plan draft using our template to forecast sales, staffing and local marketing.
Check our full Franchise FAQs for more on documentation.
Application Timeline and What to Expect
Here’s a typical journey from enquiry to opening:
Week 1–2: Enquiry, Info Pack, application + fee
Week 3–5: Financial checks, interviews, site scouting
Week 6–8: Final approvals, agreement signing
Month 3–6: Training, fit-out, team hire
Month 6–12: Grand opening & ongoing support
You’ll hear from our franchise team weekly with progress updates and a clear checklist to keep you on track. After launch, Chatime’s field ops and marketing teams stay by your side to drive growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to work in the store?
How much working capital should I hold?
Is hospitality experience mandatory?
What if I have no location lined up?
Can I open multiple stores?
For deeper dives, visit our FAQ page or reach out at franchise@chatime.com.au.
Your Next Steps: Secure Your Chatime Franchise Today
You’ve seen what it takes to join the Chatime family. Now is the moment to act. Completing your application starts a journey packed with hands-on training, expert support and access to a proven business model that Aussies love.
Submit your enquiry on the Become a Franchisee page.
Gather your documents and pay the application fee to secure your spot in the approval queue.
Plan for success by booking a discovery day at one of our stores so you can experience Chatime’s vibrant culture firsthand.
Our dedicated franchise team will guide you through every step, ensuring you feel confident and prepared. Don’t let this opportunity bubble away—start your Chatime franchise application now and be part of Australia’s bubble-tea revolution.
