Kinetic expands Gold Coast operations with acquisition of Koala Koaches

Kinetic has today announced an agreement to acquire local bus and coach company Koala Koaches, further strengthening its operations across the Gold Coast region.

Established in 1963, Koala Koaches has a proud Gold Coast history and is a leading provider of charter bus services in the region.

The acquisition will see Kinetic take on Koala Koaches’ fleet of 31 coach buses and team of 32 employees, all of whom will retain their employment with Kinetic.

Koala Koaches’ depot in Burleigh Heads will add to Kinetic’s footprint in the region, offering better coverage supporting charter customers, and explore opportunities to enhance reliability of its existing operations.

Kinetic currently operates 60 routes and over 220 school runs in the region. Kinetic Managing Director (Australia) Matthew Campbell said the company was excited to welcome the Koala Koaches team and expand its charter services on the Gold Coast.

"Bede Young and Dominique Budgen have built an outstanding reputation across the Gold Coast, continuing a proud family legacy since the 1960s, and we're committed to continuing their great work and maintaining the high standards of service the community has come to expect," Mr Campbell said.

"The Koala Koaches brand will remain, the staff will remain, and customers will continue to receive the same industry-leading service from the same experienced drivers and quality vehicles they know and trust.

“This acquisition allows us to expand Koala Koaches' charter business while bringing the support of our broader operations network.

“We share similar values, particularly around supporting local communities through partnerships and community giving.

“We look forward to expanding our partnerships on the ground and for this acquisition to unlock more ways to support the communities we serve.”

Bede Young, Koala Koaches Managing Director, said he was confident in the business’ continued growth under Kinetic's stewardship.

"Together with our family and valued team, we’ve built a special company here at Koala Koaches over the past six decades, and I'm confident that Kinetic shares our commitment to serving the Gold Coast through both excellent service and partnering with the community," Mr Young said.

"Joining the Kinetic Group provides our team with new opportunities across the local transportation industry while ensuring our customers continue to receive the safe and reliable service that has made us the Gold Coast's leading charter provider."

Mr Young will continue with the business.

The transaction is expected to complete on 31 July 2025 subject to relevant approvals.