Coates launches philanthropic foundation

Taking philanthropy and community support ‘Hire’

The Coates tradition of giving back has been made formal and sustainable by the establishment of a foundation to streamline charity and community work as diverse as donating food hampers and nurturing workplace mental wellness.

By Cole Latimer

National equipment hire and solutions provider Coates has launched a charitable foundation designed to boost its philanthropic capabilities and make a greater impact across Australia.

It is part of the company’s broader goal to support the people of Australia, whether through access to equipment and services when they need them or by building stronger communities.

Dubbed the Coates Foundation, the new organisation will provide the company increased structure and focus in its philanthropic work. Five charities are currently supported by Coates, as well as initiatives within communities.

A sustainability pillar

“[It will aid] our approach to ‘giving back’ to the communities in which we operate,” the company stated.

“The legacies we leave are part of the ongoing foundations of our organisation.”

It comes as the company celebrates over 136 years in operation, as it provides more than one million pieces of equipment across 150 branches throughout the country.

Murray Vitlich Coates CEO

Mission Australia distributed Christmas hampers provided by Coates staff in 2021 through the newly established Coates Foundation

The launch of the Coates Foundation is part of the company’s broader Sustainability Strategy, launched late last year with the ultimate commitment of achieving net-zero emissions by 2040.

This strategy aims to make a broad, long-lasting impact, changing the way Coates operates while inspiring others to act as well.

The strategy looks to increase sustainability through eco-efficiency measures that reduce waste and maximise use of recycling, water management and renewable energy; through providing a safer, inclusive workplace that inspires sustainable practices; developing greener choices for customers through equipment solutions; helping customers build resilience and supporting them through natural disaster management and recovery; and importantly strengthening its role in the communities in which it operates, leaving long-lasting positive legacies.

It is the last pillar of the company’s strategy that was the driving force behind the launch of the Foundation.

“Engagement with the community is at the heart of this business and has been for 136 years,” Coates CEO Murray Vitlich said.

“For Coates, it’s not only about doing well as a business, but also doing good.”

Vitlich added that the Foundation will help all levels of the business make a positive impact.

“We want our organisation and employees to consistently learn, understand and commit to assisting with the varied and ongoing challenges that the communities we work within face by making a constructive and lasting difference,” he said.

Vitlich added that it will help the company achieve its vision of being the market leader in safe, smart, and sustainable solutions.

“We aspire to strengthen the resilience of our people, our customers, and our planet by playing our part in the circular economy,” he said.

“Through driving eco-efficiency and resilience in our business and equipment solutions, we will contribute to a sustainable economy that keeps products and materials in use, designs out waste and pollution, and helps regenerate the natural environment.”