Family History

The story of the Costa Family begins more than a century ago, with a family shaped by hard work, migration and a deep commitment to community.

In the late 1800s, Francesco Costa, a wine producer from Salina, Italy, travelled to Australia to earn money to support his vineyard. After working across Melbourne, Colac and Geelong, he returned home—but Australia would soon become central to the family’s future.

In 1903, facing limited opportunities at home, Francesco sent his two eldest sons abroad. One of them, Joe Costa, settled in Australia. More than two decades later, in 1926, his brother Tony joined him.

Tony soon established his own business—a small fruit shop in Warrnambool. In 1937, he married Mary Piccone and entered into a partnership with Joe at the Geelong Covent Garden fruit shop. Just a year later, Tony and Mary became the sole owners, laying the foundations for what would become a multi-generational family enterprise.

Twenty years on, their sons Frank and Adrian took over the business and expanded into wholesale produce. They were later joined by their brothers Anthony, Kevin and Robert, as the family business continued to grow.

Costa Asset Management

Through the 1960s, 70s and 80s, the Costa business evolved from a local fruit shop into a major national operation.

The family expanded into wholesale distribution, supplying supermarkets and building a network of operations across Victoria, including in Werribee South, Shepparton and Monbulk. From the Melbourne Wholesale Markets, they developed a large-scale business encompassing pre-packing, logistics, interstate trade and export.

Over time, Costa became one of Australia’s leading fresh produce companies.

After more than a century as a tightly held family business, the Costa Group began transitioning away from family ownership in 2011. In 2015, the company was listed on the Australian Securities Exchange, and by 2017 the family had fully exited the business.

At the same time, Anthony and Robert Costa, together with their families, established Costa Asset Management—beginning a new chapter for the family.

The Anthony Costa Foundation

As the family stepped back from the operating business, they turned their focus toward giving back to the community that had supported their journey.

In 2015, brothers Anthony and Robert Costa, together with their wives Elaine and Rita, established the A&M Costa Foundation—named in honour of their parents. It was created as a way to recognise their family’s history and contribute meaningfully to the communities in which they live.

In February 2017, Anthony Costa passed away suddenly, leaving a profound impact on his family and the wider community.

In recognition of his vision, leadership and generosity, the family renamed the Foundation in his honour. The Anthony Costa Foundation continues his legacy—supporting people, strengthening organisations and contributing to a more connected and resilient community.