Ford Marks a Century in Australia with Big Moves and Bold Vision
Celebrating 100 years of innovation, community partnerships, and a heavy-duty future
In a landmark celebration, Ford Motor Company has marked 100 years of continuous operations in Australia. From its early days in Geelong to becoming the country’s largest automotive employer, Ford’s century-long journey has been one of innovation, resilience, and deep-rooted community ties.
To commemorate the milestone, Ford unveiled several major initiatives, including the global debut of the Ranger Super Duty, a new partnership with the Australian Red Cross, and the continuation of its 100-year relationship with the Geelong Football Club — the longest-running partnership in professional sports.
A New Benchmark: Ranger Super Duty
Designed and engineered in Australia, the all-new Ranger Super Duty made its global debut at the centenary event. For the first time, the “Super Duty” badge will grace a model outside North America, signaling Ford’s ambition to redefine the heavy-duty, midsize pickup segment.
Created in close collaboration with fleet operators and demanding customers, the Ranger Super Duty features a robust chassis, upgraded axles, reinforced suspension, and front and rear locking differentials — a serious workhorse that doesn’t skimp on comfort or tech.
“This vehicle is a direct response to what our toughest customers asked for,” said Jim Baumbick, VP of Advanced Product Development at Ford. “We’re delivering heavy-duty capability straight from the factory – ready for work and play.”
Slated for release in 2026, the Ranger Super Duty will be manufactured in Thailand and sold across Australia, New Zealand, and additional global markets.
Backed by Ford Pro Convertor
To support customization needs for commercial buyers, Ford is launching the Ford Pro Convertor program in Australia in late 2025. This initiative connects buyers with certified conversion partners, offering everything from specialty trays to emergency service equipment — all with a five-year warranty on both conversion and base vehicle.
$1.5 Million Commitment to the Australian Red Cross
Ford is also deepening its community impact with a three-year, $1.5 million partnership with the Australian Red Cross. This collaboration will fund disaster response and community resilience programs, provide a fleet of Ford vehicles for humanitarian efforts, and offer opportunities for Ford employees and dealers to get involved in volunteering and fundraising.
“The Australian Red Cross plays a vital role in preparing and protecting communities,” said Mary Culler, President of Ford Philanthropy. “Our partnership is about long-term support and standing by Australians when they need it most.”
100 Years with the Geelong Cats
Ford’s connection with the Geelong Football Club began in its first year of Australian operations and has since evolved into a legendary partnership. More than just sponsorship, the relationship is built on shared values and community involvement — supporting both the men’s and women’s teams.
“Ford and Geelong are more than partners — we’re family,” said Ford Australia CEO Andrew Birkic. “From factory workers who played for the team, to shared triumphs on and off the field, we’ve been side-by-side for a century.”
Preserving the Legacy
In celebration of its centenary, Ford has also expanded the Ford Heritage Vault, now featuring over 2,500 historic brochures and images from Australia, dating back to 1925. This digital archive ensures the company’s rich legacy remains accessible to fans and historians around the world.
Looking Ahead
With more than 1,500 employees and over 240 dealerships nationwide, Ford Australia is poised to lead into the next century with a blend of heritage, innovation, and community engagement. As the company looks to expand its service network and introduce new models like the Ranger Super Duty, one thing is clear — Ford’s legacy in Australia is just getting started.
