Cristina Cecere

Cristina is a highly experienced commercial and property lawyer with a strong focus on commercial disputes, litigation and dispute resolution. She has more than 20 years’ experience across franchising, aged care, property, construction, and general commercial matters.

She advises and represents clients in a broad range of commercial disputes, including contractual and franchise disputes, property and leasing disputes, building and construction matters, regulatory issues and disputes arising from commercial transactions. Cristina takes a strategic and commercially focused approach to dispute resolution, working with clients to assess risk, identify practical options and achieve the best possible outcome.

Cristina’s extensive commercial background is a significant strength in her litigation practice. Having advised businesses throughout the lifecycle of complex transactions and commercial arrangements, she brings a detailed understanding of the contractual, operational and commercial issues that often underpin disputes. This enables her to provide litigation advice that considers not only the legal position, but also the broader commercial implications for her clients.

Cristina is particularly well known for her expertise in franchising law, with many years’ experience advising franchisors and franchisees throughout all stages of the franchise lifecycle, including disputes, contractual issues and compliance.  Franchising in Australia is becoming increasingly regulated, requiring businesses to stay on top of compliance, dispute resolution, and contractual obligations. In this environment, it’s crucial to have a lawyer who not only understands the complexities of the law but also the practical challenges of running a franchise. Cristina brings a unique blend of legal expertise and business insight, offering advice that helps clients navigate the regulatory landscape while achieving their operational and strategic goals. With her deep understanding of both the legal and commercial sides of franchising, Cristina ensures businesses remain compliant and thrive in a competitive market.

Fruther, Cristina is proud to be involved in the Franchise Council of Australia's Women in Franchising South Australian Committee.

She also has experience in the aged care and NDIS sectors, advising providers on regulatory compliance, commercial arrangements, property and leasing, acquisitions and business operations within a highly regulated environment.

Her property and construction experience further strengthens her dispute resolution practice, including matters involving development, building and construction contracts, defects, contractual performance and commercial disagreements.

Cristina has worked in-house for a number of large national businesses across franchising, hospitality and construction, as well as at a leading national law firm and as a principal of her own practice. This diverse experience gives her a strong understanding of the commercial realities businesses face when disputes arise.

Cristina works closely with clients to develop practical and commercially sensible strategies. She is known for her empathetic, down-to-earth and pragmatic approach, providing clear advice and strong advocacy.

Her broad commercial experience, combined with her dispute resolution and litigation expertise, enables Cristina to assist clients confidently through complex disputes, protecting their commercial interests while supporting their long-term business objectives.