Company History

Ausco Modular was formed in 1961 by the Alberta Trailer Company (ATCO) of Canada, with the establishment of a 6,300m² plant in Adelaide, South Australia.  The business expanded into export activities in the 1970’s.

During the 1980’s, ATCO expanded nationally through the acquisitions of Atlas, Panelfab and Planet Homes. By 1985, ATCO has become a clear market leader, selling and hiring more modular buildings than any other company. 

In 1986, ATCO sold its Australian business to Fortuna, a New Zealand company. Fortuna went into receivership in 1990 due to the poor performance of other business activities being undertaken. During this period, ATCO continued to operate profitably, whilst also increasing marketshare. In 1991, ATCO was sold to Australian interests representing the Fortuna liquidator, changing the company name to Ausco.

James Hardie Industries entered the modular building industry in 1990 as a result of its acquisition of the Bondor (sandwich panel) business from McConnell Dowell. The acquisition included the Victorian-based Pacesetter business in Australia & Portacom in New Zealand. In 1993,  JHIL subsequently extended its position in the modular building industry through the purchase of the Portacom business in Australia.

In 1994, James Hardie completed its industry rationalisation with the purchase of the market leader, Ausco.  The Ausco brand name was retained due to its market recognition.

In March 2000, Waco International acquired Ausco and following in March 2008 Ausco Building Systems changed its name to Ausco Modular Pty Ltd to better reflect the trends in modular buildings throughout all markets.

Today, Ausco Modular has a network of 15 branches across Australia in all capital cities and major regional centres.  The company has a fleet of 12,000 buildings and 130,000 ancillary items and has 10 manufacturing facilities located 5 locations across Australia.