Keolis has announced the signing of an agreement with Downer to acquire its partner’s entire stake in the “Keolis Downer” joint venture. The transaction is expected to be completed by end-2025.

With this investment, Keolis aims to further strengthen its role as a trusted partner to Australian authorities by offering sustainable and innovative mobility solutions that meet the needs of passengers and communities.

This decision will enable Keolis to continue its growth momentum in Australia across the bus, tram, automated metro, and rail markets. The Group will notably be in a strong position to form a solid consortium to respond to the upcoming tender for Melbourne trains.

Already majority shareholder of the joint venture, Keolis has signed an agreement to become the sole owner of its operations in Australia. This transaction reinforces Keolis’ commitment to developing its presence in Australia, where the Group is already a major player in public transport. Keolis will continue to focus on operational excellence while pursuing its development in this strategic market.

The completion of the transaction is subject to customary conditions precedent and regulatory approvals in Australia.

Diverse Operations and Proven Expertise

Keolis has been operating in Australia for 15 years and employs over 3,500 people across the country. It runs tram networks, buses, ferry shuttles, and on-demand transport services in several Australian cities. Keolis operates the G:link tram on the Gold Coast and the Newcastle tram north of Sydney.

It also manages the maintenance of Adelaide’s trains and major bus networks in Perth (Western Australia), Adelaide (South Australia), Brisbane (Queensland), Sydney, and Newcastle, where it operates the integrated public transport system (New South Wales).

“After 15 years of collaboration with Downer and a successful track record of development, we are now taking a strategic step by becoming the sole shareholder of our operations in Australia. This decision will allow us to form targeted partnerships to continue our development and strengthen our presence. The timing is ideal to reshape our approach, given our understanding of the local market and our position as a major player in public transport. We will continue developing our close collaboration with local authorities to deliver increasingly efficient transport solutions for Australian passengers.”

Marie-Ange Debon, Chairwoman of the Keolis Group Executive Board