Victorian operator Crown Coaches has reflected on its recent acquisition by fellow operator Ventura, saying operations will remain “unchanged” as it embarks on “a new chapter”.
Last week, Ventura announced it was acquiring the family business to continue expanding its capabilities across the state.
In response, Crown Coaches director Renee Haoust says the operator is preparing to begin the next phase of its history in a way that “honours its legacy while strengthening its future”.
“The Haoust family, who have led the company with pride since its beginnings, is now joining forces with Ventura,” Haoust told ABC.
“For 59 years, Crown Coaches has built a reputation for safety, reliability and professionalism — values shared across the bus and coach industry. Central to that reputation has been the dedication of its people.
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“The Haoust family has had the privilege of working alongside extraordinary people — from our dependable employees whose talent and commitment have shaped our success, to our loyal clients and industry partners whose trust and collaboration made our work so rewarding.”
Haoust says the decision to join Ventura brings together “two long-established Victorian operators with strong alignment in safety, culture, values and service standards”.
“Ventura’s added capability, scale, and long‑term investment will support Crown Coaches’ growth well into the future, ensuring a stable and sustainable pathway for the business, its people and the communities it serves.
“Importantly, the Crown Coaches brand, workforce and contracts will continue unchanged. For customers, suppliers and staff — including the drivers who remain the face of the organisation — operations will continue as they do today. The partnership enhances Crown’s ability to deliver safe, reliable, customer‑focused transport, backed by the resources of a larger network.”
The Crown Coaches member says the transition is as much about the past as it is the future, with the acquisition allowing the Haoust family to reflect on its commitment to safeguarding the Crown Coaches legacy and ensuring the business remains well-position for the decades ahead.
“By joining forces with Ventura, Crown Coaches strengthens its foundation while preserving the identity and values it has carried proudly since its first day on the road in 1967, while still delivering safe, high-quality transport and continuing the legacy entrusted to the next generation of leadership.”
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