140
years’ experience
Our story
In 2025, Coates celebrates our 140th anniversary. Founded in 1885 by John Coates to support Victoria’s gold-rush towns, the company has grown into Australia's largest equipment hire and solutions provider.
This milestone is an opportunity to reflect on our long history of supporting our customers, people and communities. It speaks not only to the strength of our company but also to the passion, dedication and vision of everyone who has contributed to our journey.
Over the years, Coates has faced challenges, embraced new technologies and expanded to offer new specialist solutions for Engineering Solutions, Industrial Solutions and Power & HVAC.
Each chapter of our story has been shaped by the hard work and innovation of our people, the trust and support of our shareholders, and the loyalty of our customers.
Together, we will continue to forge ahead into an even brighter future.
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Our culture
Our values shape the culture of Coates and help us build a better future for all our stakeholders.
Care deeply: We care deeply about the safety and wellbeing of our people, our customers and our communities.
Be our best: We strive for high performance through accountability, learning and the determination to be better.
Customer-focused: We are focused on helping our customers succeed by delivering above expectations.
One team: We work as one collaborative, passionate and inclusive team to deliver customer solutions.
Competitive spirit: We set ambitious goals and together pursue every opportunity to grow our business.
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Our journey
1885
John Coates & Co Ltd is founded in Melbourne.
John Coates establishes a small engineering company to supply heavy machinery to the Victorian goldfields.
1946
A vibrating roller inspires a new business model.
Coates introduces an innovative ‘hire before you buy’ policy for a new vibrating compaction roller, establishing the first rental business model.
1955
Coates Hire is born.
Coates Hire goes public on the ASX, expanding its fleet to support Australia's growing mining, infrastructure and construction sectors.
1960
Our tool stores improve shutdown efficiency.
We halve shutdown times by operating fully equipped tool stores. Today, Coates Industrial Solutions supports hundreds of maintenance events annually.
1885
John Coates & Co Ltd is founded in Melbourne.
John Coates establishes a small engineering company to supply heavy machinery to the Victorian goldfields.
