Piper Alderman advises Brisbane Bus Lines Pty Ltd on sale of business to Kangaroo Bus Lines

Piper Alderman is pleased to have advised Brisbane Bus Lines Pty Ltd on the sale of the Brisbane Bus Lines business, a significant transaction in the Queensland transport industry.

Founded in 1965, Brisbane Bus Lines is a multi-generational family owned business that has been providing school transport, government contract and general charter bus services throughout southeast Queensland for over 60 years. Over the years, Brisbane Bus Lines has built a strong reputation within the Queensland transport industry with its community focussed approach in providing transport services throughout the State.

Brisbane Bus Lines has chosen Kangaroo Bus Lines, another significant multigenerational family owned Queensland transport operator to carry on its legacy.

This transaction supports the continued provision of safe, reliable and responsive transport services by family owned operators that are able to use their extensive industry experience and understanding to connect communities.

Piper Alderman’s role included advising Brisbane Bus Lines on key legal, commercial and industry specific aspects associated with the sale.

Partner Maria Capati led the engagement, bringing deep sector expertise in commercial and transport projects. Maria was supported on the deal by Peter Dwyer, Tim Capelin, Tony Newton, Emily Setter and Javani Basnayake.

Maria Capati commented:

“This transaction represents an important milestone in the Queensland bus industry with an iconic operator in Brisbane Bus Lines being bought by another iconic operator in Kangaroo Bus Lines. 

It has been a privilege to support the Mitchell family on the sale of their business, we have acted for them for over 30 years and been through many contract negotiations with them. Their decision to sell was an emotional one and it is hard to see another family operator exit the industry. However, this acquisition by Kangaroo Bus Lines will play a key role in the future of bus transport in South East Queensland, particularly in the lead up to the 2032 Olympics and I congratulate the Webster family on their acquisition. The legacy of Brisbane Bus Lines will live on as part of the Kangaroo Bus Lines Group.”

Following completion of the deal, Lara-Jane Mitchell, Director of Brisbane Bus Lines Pty Ltd had the following to say about working with Piper Alderman:

“We would like to thank Maria and the Piper Alderman team for their exceptional support in helping us bring this transaction to completion. It was a long and complex process spanning more than a year, with its fair share of unique challenges. Throughout the journey, their professionalism, expertise and steady guidance gave us confidence when we needed it most. A great solicitor doesn’t just provide legal advice – they know how to keep you focussed and reassure you when the process feels overwhelming. We are incredibly grateful for their hard work, dedication, and unwavering support in helping us reach this significant milestone.”

This matter further demonstrates Piper Alderman’s leading capability in acting on complex M&A transactions, particularly those supporting the transport industry across Australia.