McDonald’s Australia is set to expand its footprint with between 30 and 50 new stores in the country in the 12-month period to July 2026, as reported by news.com.au, quoting NewsWire.

McDonald’s Australia CEO Joe Chiczewski expressed his commitment to investing: “I would expect over the next 12 months that we would open somewhere between 30 and 50 restaurants. We’re absolutely committed to continuing to invest in the Aussie community.”

Chiczewski highlighted the city of Perth as a key area for potential new restaurant openings.

Alongside the expansion, he announced plans for menu innovations over the next year, describing them as “choiceful innovation.”

McDonald’s Australia has introduced a price freeze on select menu items for 12 months to attract cost-conscious customers.

The McSmart Meal, which includes two hamburgers, fries and a drink for under A$7 ($4.61), will maintain its price for twelve months.

Prices on items on the Loose Change menu, which have been set at A$4 or below, will also remain unchanged.

Sausage McMuffins will be sold for A$4, hamburgers will remain at A$2, frozen Cokes at A$1 and soft serve ice creams at 50 cents.

Chiczewski added: “Like many Australian businesses, we’ve experienced rising costs over the past five years, driven by inflation and other economic factors. And yes, that means some of our menu prices have increased - we’re not denying this.

“However, our focus and commitment remain unchanged - keeping our menu as accessible and affordable as possible for our customers.

“Our price promise on the McSmart Meal and Loose Change Menu is at the core of this commitment and ensures we can keep serving up Macca’s favourites for less.”

In August 2024, McDonald’s Australia expanded its Quarter Pounder range with the addition of two new versions of the burger.