About Us

Experienced locksmiths in Melbourne

John Barnes & Company Pty Ltd Locksmiths is a family owned and operated company servicing commercial and residential customers throughout Melbourne. From our humble beginnings in 1949, we’ve transformed from a modest locksmith company to one of the most respected businesses in the industry.

John Franklin Barnes founded the company on the corner of Swanston and Little Lonsdale. Ever the entrepreneur, Barnes introduced the DeHavilland Jet Boat to Australia and was one of the first Victorian distributors of the famous Victor lawn mower.

By 1951, Ron Roberts had come on board as a business partner, and the pair developed a strong understanding of the direction they were heading. Back in the 1950s, the locksmith industry was relatively new. But with the support of locally iconic manufactured products – including Ogden Industries, Astra Hardware, Dalco and R.B.Davies – John Barnes & Company Pty Ltd Locksmiths created one of the first shop fronts for security products in Melbourne.

Following several successful years, the company relocated to 576 Elizabeth St to accommodate its expanding requirements. The new site became the first auto drive-in workshop in Australia. Large volume key cutting became an integral part of the company’s clientele, with partnerships with automotive and government and industry clients requiring thousands of keys per order. In 1974, Ron Roberts Sr. acquired total control of the business and continues to run operations today alongside his two sons – Colin and Ron Jr.

Ron Roberts Jr. took on the task of establishing a foothold in the southern districts and the greater Melbourne area, building the brand and creating an even stronger presence in a rapidly evolving industry. Ron Jr now also has the support of his two sons Ron (lll) and Kane, creating an even stronger future for the business going forward.

We continually strive to develop and uncover new and innovative security solutions to keep our strong customer base as secure as possible. Our clients can enjoy real peace of mind knowing that their most valuable assets are secure and maintained to the highest standards possible. And with our old-fashioned values and excellent customer service, you’re always guaranteed a pleasant experience.

While many companies today focus their attention on bottom line profits, we continue to grow with a strong emphasis on our original core values: to provide premium customer service combined with trust and integrity. This is our key to building and maintaining lasting business partnerships which we believe only come with confidence and trust.