Origins: The Hunter Family Vision

In 1989, Shayne Hunter began publishing vehicle classified magazines featuring photographs alongside listings—an innovation inspired by London Motor Show catalogs. Operating from the Hunter family home in Victoria, the very first issue was assembled on their kitchen table as a true family effort. Within six months, the magazine’s page count had increased by nearly 50%, proving the success of Shayne’s photo-classified concept.

The business grew rapidly and moved to its first formal office in North Geelong in 1994. Shayne continued to build on his vision by introducing titles that focused on collectible, classic, and enthusiast vehicles. These quickly became leading publications in their categories.

A Legacy Continues

After Shayne Hunter’s untimely passing in 1998, his 22-year-old son, Ashley "Ash" Hunter, took over leadership with a determination to carry forward his father’s legacy. Under Ash’s guidance, the company entered a new era of growth, launching new titles in the early 2000s such as Just Trucks & Heavy Equipment (2001), Just Parts, and Just 4x4s.

By the late 2000s, the portfolio had grown to include five specialized publications, each dominating or strongly competing in its niche. The Hunter family’s deep understanding of automotive enthusiast audiences remained at the heart of the company’s success—keeping each title focused and authentic.

Digital Transformation

Around 2010, the company embraced the digital age with the launch of the Just JDM Cars online platform. For the first time, users could search and list vehicles and parts online through this unified digital space. Strategic acquisitions soon followed, including Western Australia’s Auto Trader group from Telstra/Sensis.

In the mid-2010s, the company evolved its identity once more, transitioning from “Just Magazines” to Just JDM Cars Media to represent its growing digital presence. Today, Just JDM Cars continues as a dynamic, family-led enterprise under Ash Hunter’s leadership—successfully blending tradition with innovation while maintaining the community spirit that has defined it for more than three decades.

Timeline Highlights

• 1989: Just Magazines launches; first issue produced from the Hunter family home
• 1994: Business moves to its first North Geelong office to accommodate growth
• 1998: Ashley Hunter assumes leadership following the passing of founder Shayne Hunter
• 2001: Launch of Just Trucks & Heavy Equipment, followed by Just Parts and Just 4x4s
• 2010: Digital expansion with the introduction of the Just JDM Cars online platform
• 2015: Rebrand to Just JDM Cars Media, marking its evolution into a multi-channel marketplace
• Present: Just JDM Cars Media stands among Australia’s largest privately-owned automotive publishers, with multiple specialized verticals serving dedicated enthusiast audiences