For Emergency Service call 03 9347 3077

Located in the heart of Melbourne CBD on Elizabeth Street

Serving Melbourne since 1949

Licensed and insured professionals

Commercial and Residential services

Our Story

John Barnes Locksmiths is a family owned and operated company servicing commercial and residential customers throughout Melbourne. From our humble beginnings in 1949, we’re 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 Locksmiths created one of the first shop fronts for security products in Melbourne.

Meet the Team

Colin Roberts

Colin Roberts

Director

Colin Roberts began his career with the family business in 1972. With decades of experience and a deep-rooted commitment to the company's founding principles, he continues to uphold and promote the traditional values on which the business was built. His long-standing dedication and leadership play a vital role in guiding the organization with integrity, consistency, and a strong sense of purpose.

John Hasler

John Hasler

Managing Director

John Hasler joined the company in 2003 as an apprentice and has grown into a dedicated professional and Managing Director. With over 20 years of experience, he leads the company’s strategic direction and operations, focusing on innovative security solutions. John is committed to building strong client relationships by delivering tailored, high quality services, driving the company’s reputation for excellence and trust.

Vanessa Farrell

Vanessa Farrell

Administration Manager

Vanessa has been a valued team member since 2002, bringing over 20 years of experience to her role as Administration Manager. She has played a key role in developing and streamlining internal systems, contributing to greater efficiency across the business. Her leadership, attention to detail, and long-standing dedication have been instrumental in the company’s growth and success.

Ashlea Orchard

Ashlea Orchard

Service Administrator

Ashlea joined John Barnes Locksmiths in 2013 and is a dedicated Service Administrator with over a decade of experience. She coordinates service requests and serves as the key contact for clients, known for her professionalism, attention to detail, and strong communication skills.

Pattama Hasler

Pattama Hasler

Administration Officer

Pattama Hasler has been a valued member of our team for over eight years, known for her reliability and commitment to excellence in administrative support. As an Administration Clerk, she handles a wide range of tasks, from data entry to document management with precision and care. Pattama is also recognised for her strong customer service skills and attention to detail, ensuring accurate and efficient account management.

Jayda Stowers

Jayda Stowers

Junior Office Assistant

Jayda joined as our Junior Office Assistant in early 2025 and has quickly become a valuable team member. She’s the friendly first point of contact for clients, handles key and lock orders with care, and supports daily admin tasks with efficiency and enthusiasm.

Edward Rice

Edward Rice

SCEC Endorsed Locksmith, Workshop Manager & Automotive Specialist

Edward Rice has been with John Barnes since 2018, serving as Workshop Manager and lead Automotive Specialist. He oversees daily operations and delivers expert automotive locksmith services, including key cutting, transponder programming, and lock repairs. Known for his technical skill and approachable leadership, Edward is a trusted member of the team.

Sergio Pena

Sergio Pena

SCEC Endorsed Locksmith

Sergio joined John Barnes Locksmiths in June 2023 and quickly became a reliable and skilled technician. SCEC endorsed and holding a Rail Industry Worker (RIW) card, he works on major commercial, government, and rail projects across Victoria. Known for his strong work ethic, precision, and friendly nature, Sergio consistently delivers high quality, secure installations tailored to each job.

Shayne Kuyper

Shayne Kuyper

SCEC Endorsed Locksmith

Shayne Kuyper is a highly skilled locksmith with over 10 years of experience in the security industry. As a SCEC endorsed professional, he is qualified to work on high security and government projects. Known for his precision and expertise, Shayne consistently delivers reliable solutions and plays a key role in maintaining John Barnes & Co’s reputation for excellence in commercial security.

Tam Pham

Tam Pham

SCEC Endorsed Locksmith

Tam is a skilled and reliable locksmith known for his attention to detail and strong work ethic. Since completing his apprenticeship in 2024, he has become a valued team member and a SCEC endorsed professional, qualified for high security work. Tam is also recognised for his excellent customer service and his role in mentoring apprentices, contributing to a positive and collaborative workshop environment.

William Galvis

William Galvis

Locksmith / Automotive Technician

William is a qualified locksmith with a strong focus on automotive services, known for his precision, reliability, and technical skill. Since joining John Barnes Locksmiths in June 2024, he has built a reputation for accurate work, detailed reporting, and excellent customer service. His solution focused approach makes him a trusted asset both onsite and in the workshop.

Sam Ellison

Sam Ellison

Locksmith

Sam is a skilled and dedicated locksmith with strengths in both general and automotive locksmithing, as well as access control systems. He has proven himself reliable across various job sites and was named "Apprentice of the Year" in 2023 a reflection of his strong work ethic and technical ability. Sam continues to be a valuable asset to our team with a promising future in the industry.

David Galvis

David Galvis

Locksmith

David Galvis is a skilled and dedicated locksmith known for his positive attitude and professionalism. With strong technical expertise and a rail industry card, he works across a range of environments. David is committed to continuous learning and is highly respected for his reliability, knowledge, and approachable manner.

Felipe Gaitan

Felipe Gaitan

Locksmith / Automotive Technician

Felipe Gaitan is a certified locksmith with specialised expertise in automotive locksmithing, including transponder programming, key cutting, and ignition repair. He also has a strong background in general locksmithing, making him a versatile asset across residential and commercial jobs. Known for his professionalism and attention to detail, Felipe consistently delivers reliable, high quality service to our clients.

Jacob Agius

Jacob Agius

Apprentice Locksmith

Jacob joined John Barnes Locksmiths in 2023 as an apprentice and has quickly become a valued team member. Now in his second year, he continues to grow in skill and confidence, showing strong dedication and enthusiasm for the trade.

Shea Murray-Phelan

Shea Murray-Phelan

Apprentice Locksmith

Shea is a first year apprentice who joined John Barnes Locksmiths in January 2025. Eager to learn and passionate about the trade, he’s quickly building a solid foundation in locksmithing. With a strong work ethic and positive attitude, Shea is a valuable team member as he develops his skills.

Darrian Desailly

Darrian Desailly

Apprentice Locksmith

Darrian joined our team in 2025 as a dedicated third year apprentice locksmith with a passion for hands on work and problem solving. He has developed strong skills across residential, commercial, and automotive locksmithing, including key cutting and lock installations. Known for his work ethic, communication, and team spirit, Darrian consistently delivers quality results and is committed to growing into a fully qualified locksmith.

Our Accreditation

Working With Children
Rail Industry Worker
Master Locksmith Association
SCEC Endorsed Locksmiths