As of 2025, Australia’s wealthiest individuals span industries including mining, real estate, technology, and manufacturing. Their success stories and lifestyles reveal their business acumen, investments, and philanthropic contributions. Here is an in-depth look at the top 10 richest people in Australia.
1. Gina Rinehart
Net Worth: $29.44 billion
Industry: Mining
Biography:
Gina Rinehart, the daughter of Lang Hancock, inherited Hancock Prospecting in 1992 and transformed it into one of the world’s most profitable mining companies. Under her leadership, the company expanded significantly in iron ore and agricultural ventures.
Earnings & Business Influence:
Her wealth largely comes from iron ore mining, with Hancock Prospecting consistently securing multi-billion-dollar deals. In recent years, she has also expanded into livestock and dairy farming.
Lifestyle & Philanthropy:
Rinehart is known for her private yet influential lifestyle. She sponsors Australian Olympians, funds medical research, and owns multiple luxury properties worldwide.
2. Harry Triguboff
Net Worth: $18.8 billion
Industry: Real Estate
Biography:
Harry Triguboff, often called “Highrise Harry,” founded Meriton, Australia’s largest apartment developer. Born in China in 1933, he moved to Australia in his teenage years and built a real estate empire over five decades.
Earnings & Business Influence:
With thousands of apartments across Australia, Meriton continues to drive Triguboff’s fortune. His focus on luxury and affordable apartments has made him a dominant force in the Australian housing market.
Lifestyle & Philanthropy:
He owns luxury penthouses and a fleet of high-end cars. Recently, he decided to sell his Gold Coast penthouse after his wife’s passing, marking a significant emotional moment in his life.
3. Mike Cannon-Brookes
Net Worth: $18.3 billion
Industry: Technology
Biography:
As co-founder of Atlassian, Cannon-Brookes revolutionized project management software with products like Jira and Trello. His tech empire has expanded into artificial intelligence and enterprise solutions.
Earnings & Business Influence:
Atlassian’s global market dominance and expanding investments in renewable energy significantly boosted his net worth.
Lifestyle & Philanthropy:
Cannon-Brookes is passionate about clean energy, investing in the Sun Cable project. Despite his immense wealth, he prefers a casual, down-to-earth lifestyle, often seen wearing t-shirts and sneakers.
4. Scott Farquhar
Net Worth: $17.9 billion
Industry: Technology
Biography:
The other half of Atlassian, Scott Farquhar has helped turn the company into a software giant. His journey from university startup to billion-dollar enterprise is a classic success story.
Earnings & Business Influence:
His wealth stems from Atlassian’s continued expansion and global demand for tech solutions.
Lifestyle & Philanthropy:
Farquhar focuses on education and technology startups, investing in young entrepreneurs. He is family-oriented and prefers a low-profile lifestyle.
5. Andrew Forrest
Net Worth: $16.1 billion
Industry: Mining
Biography:
Andrew “Twiggy” Forrest founded Fortescue Metals Group, making it one of the largest iron ore exporters in the world.
Earnings & Business Influence:
His focus on green hydrogen and sustainable energy has positioned him as a future leader in renewable resources.
Lifestyle & Philanthropy:
Forrest is a generous donor, contributing billions to Indigenous affairs, medical research, and ocean conservation.
6. Anthony Pratt
Net Worth: $11.7 billion
Industry: Manufacturing
Biography:
As chairman of Visy Industries, Pratt leads one of the largest packaging and recycling companies globally.
Earnings & Business Influence:
His company’s commitment to sustainable packaging has made it a global leader in the recycling sector.
Lifestyle & Philanthropy:
Pratt actively funds environmental sustainability efforts and supports Australian music and education.
7. Kerry Stokes
Net Worth: $8.02 billion
Industry: Media and Mining Services
Biography:
Kerry Stokes built his wealth through Channel Seven, mining services, and heavy machinery industries.
Earnings & Business Influence:
His diverse business interests ensure a steady increase in his net worth.
Lifestyle & Philanthropy:
Stokes is a renowned art collector, owning priceless historical artifacts and contributing to cultural institutions.
8. Frank Lowy
Net Worth: $7.94 billion
Industry: Shopping Malls
Biography:
Co-founder of Westfield Corporation, Lowy developed a shopping mall empire.
Earnings & Business Influence:
After selling Westfield to Unibail-Rodamco, his fortune remains strong through real estate investments.
Lifestyle & Philanthropy:
A passionate football supporter, he invests heavily in sports and Jewish charities.
9. Richard White
Net Worth: $7.91 billion
Industry: Logistics Software
Biography:
Founder of WiseTech Global, a leader in logistics and supply chain management software.
Earnings & Business Influence:
With global e-commerce growth, White’s company continues to expand.
Lifestyle & Philanthropy:
He funds STEM education programs and high-tech startups.
10. Melanie Perkins & Cliff Obrecht
Net Worth: $5.76 billion (each)
Industry: Technology
Biography:
The husband-and-wife duo cofounded Canva, one of the world’s leading design platforms.
Earnings & Business Influence:
Canva’s expansion into AI-powered design tools boosted their wealth significantly.
Lifestyle & Philanthropy:
They focus on education programs, particularly in underserved communities.
The richest individuals in Australia continue to diversify their investments into technology, sustainability, and real estate. Many have shifted towards philanthropy, emphasizing education, renewable energy, and social welfare. These billionaires are shaping Australia’s economy and leaving a lasting impact on both business and society.
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