Since 1967, Crown Coaches has been a trusted transport partner to over 150 of Melbourne’s largest Government and Private Schools. They also serve many of Melbourne’s high-profile events and corporate groups, regularly providing transfers for players and performers to major events, such as the AFL Grand Final Parade. 

Known for their innovation and being a leader in their industry, Crown Coaches was one of the first bus and coach companies in Australia to offer an entire fleet of seatbelt-equipped vehicles. Providing an uncompromising level of safety has always been the company’s highest priority, ensuring that their valued clients have absolute peace of mind when travelling with Crown Coaches.

They are committed to exploring environmentally-sustainable transport solutions including offering the latest EURO 6 diesel, low emission coaches for long-haul or extended trips as the most environmentally efficient choice.

We asked Renee Haoust, Director from Crown Coaches to share her insights and advice on the competitive advantage of being a family business.

Can you give us a snapshot of your family business?
Crown Coaches is a family owned and operated business, which has been servicing Victoria for over half a century. Working with our loyal co-workers, we are proud to have grown a successful business. Today, Crown Coaches is Melbourne’s premier bus and coach transport provider, known for an outstanding safety record and innovation, as well as an industry leader in environmentally-sustainable transport solutions.

What are your aspirations for the future of your family business?
Safety is always the utmost priority in everything we do.  We aspire to continue to be the safest bus and coach operator in Victoria.  Our Vision “Our Family Transports Your Family” says it all!

 What have been the greatest opportunities being a family business in your industry?
Building professional relationships with parents and siblings has been significant. Trust and cohesion between the family unit has also been a very strong advantage.

What are the greatest challenges of being a family business?
Keeping a family culture within the workplace.  The larger we get and busier our lives become, it has been challenging to have that employee 1:1 connection.  Succession Planning for the future has also proven a challenge and hard work.  It is so important to have a really clear vision for the future and for everyone to understand it. We would advise starting early!

What advice would you give to other family businesses or to those who are thinking about starting one?
Ensure every family member is accountable for their own role and responsibilities. Also ensure there is 100% respect and support of each other no matter what.

What are the main benefits or value your membership with FBA has offered you?
Particularly Jerome (2^nd Generation) and I have found the various courses, and networking with other FBA members invaluable.  The learning environment is friendly and welcoming as well as being designed around ‘Business’ and ‘Family’, as family businesses are definitely unique.