If you are a fan of the Golden Arches, you might want to keep your eyes peeled. Something new could be coming to your neighbourhood—and soon.
Recent developments suggest that one of the world’s most recognisable food chains is making some serious moves in Australia.
McDonald’s sets its sights on expansion
In a recent interview, McDonald’s Australia chief executive officer Joe Chiczewski shared news of a significant national expansion.
After taking over in March this year following his tenure in the United States, he now leads plans to open 30 to 50 new stores across the country in the next 12 months.
With more than 1,050 restaurants already operating nationwide, the move signals McDonald’s ongoing commitment to growth and investment in the Australian market.
‘We’re going to open more restaurants over the next 12 months,’ said Mr Chiczewski. ‘That is a key priority for our growth strategy—not just the next 12 months, but over the next few years.’
He added: ‘We’re absolutely committed to continuing to invest in the Australian community.’
He pointed to Perth as one of the key focus areas, but noted that expansion opportunities exist in every major city, potentially bringing a new Maccas to your area soon.
Menu innovations on the horizon
McDonald’s is not only looking to grow in numbers—it is also looking to evolve its offerings.
Mr Chiczewski described a push for ‘choiceful innovation’ designed to reflect what Australian customers are craving.
A notable recent launch is McWings, a new chicken item that responds to the country’s growing appetite for poultry options.
‘Australian consumers love chicken, and we want to give them more chicken options on our menu,’ he said.
So if you have been hoping for something new, more additions may be on the way.
Fighting the cost-of-living crunch with value deals
With the rising cost of living, many Australians are seeking better value when dining out.
McDonald’s has responded with a 12-month price lock on some of its most popular items.
The McSmart Meal—which includes two hamburgers, fries, and a drink—will remain at $6.95 for the next year.
The Loose Change menu, with items priced at $4 or less, will also continue for at least another 12 months.
That means you can enjoy a sausage McMuffin for $4, a hamburger for $2, a frozen drink for $1, and a soft serve cone for just 50c.
While fries are not part of the Loose Change menu, they are available in the McSmart Meal and as part of promotional deals through the McDonald’s mobile app.
‘We definitely know our world-famous fries are what our consumer wants, and we want to find ways to give it to them at a good value as well,’ Mr Chiczewski added.
Australians responding to value
So far, the value-led strategy appears to be working. Since launching the McSmart Meal, McDonald’s is selling around 600,000 of them each week. And the 50c cones? They are proving incredibly popular.
‘Our customers are responding when we give them that value and affordability, which is exactly what they need right now,’ said Mr Chiczewski.
A look back—and forward
McDonald’s has been part of the Australian dining scene since 1971, when a burger cost just 20c.
Today, the brand employs around 115,000 people across the country and continues to be a familiar presence in both cities and regional towns.
With this latest round of expansion and updates to its menu, McDonald’s is showing that even after five decades, it is not done evolving.
What does this mean for you?
For many Australians over 50, McDonald’s is more than just a takeaway.
It is a place for a quiet coffee, a fun outing with the grandkids, or even a spot of nostalgia.
Now, with more locations on the way and fresh menu options being introduced, there is even more reason to pop by your local Maccas—or try a new one when it opens.
And with new pricing promises in place, it’s good to know that you can still enjoy your favourites without spending too much.
Have your say
What do you think about McDonald’s plans for expansion? Would you welcome a new branch in your area, or are you more interested in what is coming to the menu? How important is value when choosing where to eat out?
Share your thoughts in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you.
Also read: McDonald’s surprises fans with new menu addition after ‘secret’ trial success
