Andrew Forrest, widely known as “Twiggy,” is not just one of Australia’s most successful mining magnates; he is a dynamic entrepreneur, environmental advocate, and philanthropist, reshaping the boundaries of business and social responsibility. From humble beginnings in Western Australia to becoming a global force in the iron ore and clean energy sectors, Forrest’s journey is a compelling tale of resilience, innovation, and purpose.
Key Information
| Field | Details |
| Full Name | John Andrew Henry Forrest |
| Nickname | Twiggy |
| Date of Birth | July 18, 1961 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 63 years old |
| Place of Birth | Perth, Western Australia |
| Raised In | Minderoo Station, Pilbara region, WA |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Ethnicity | Anglo-Celtic Australian |
| Religion | Christian (publicly mentions faith in speeches) |
| Zodiac Sign | Cancer |
| Education | University of Western Australia (BA in Economics & Politics) |
| Alma Mater | Hale School, Perth |
| Parents | Donald Forrest (father), Judith Forrest (mother) |
| Siblings | Two older siblings |
| Marital Status | Separated (Nicola Forrest, 2023)
|
| Spouse | Nicola Maurice Forrest (m. 1991, separated 2023) |
| Children | 3 (Sophia, Grace, and Sydney Forrest) |
| Current Residence | Perth, Western Australia |
| Previous Roles | CEO of Fortescue Metals Group (2003–2011) |
| Current Roles | Non-Executive Chairman of FMG, Executive Chairman of Fortescue Future Industries |
| Other Businesses | Tattarang, R.M. Williams, Harvest Road Group |
| Foundation | Minderoo Foundation (co-founded with Nicola Forrest) |
| Philanthropic Focus Areas | Modern slavery, cancer research, Indigenous equity, disaster response |
| Political Views | Non-partisan, supports bipartisan action on the environment and slavery |
| Hobbies & Interests | Horse breeding, nature conservation, and Indigenous culture |
| Signature Trait | Outspoken visionary with a passion for purpose-driven capitalism |
| Languages | English |
| Public Speaking | Frequent speaker at global climate forums and economic summits |
| Awards | Officer of the Order of Australia (AO), Australian of the Year (WA, 2020) |
| Notable Investment Areas | Mining, green energy, agribusiness, education |
| Known For | Iron ore magnate, philanthropy, clean energy advocacy |
| Net Worth (2025) | ~ $16.1 billion |
Early Life and Education
Born on July 18, 1961, in Perth, Western Australia, John Andrew Henry Forrest was raised on Minderoo Station, a vast cattle station that instilled a love for the land and a tenacious work ethic. He is a descendant of a prominent pioneering family; his great-great-uncle was Sir John Forrest, the first Premier of Western Australia. After attending Hale School, Forrest studied economics and politics at the University of Western Australia, where the seeds of his entrepreneurial spirit began to take root.
Fortescue Metals Group (FMG): A Mining Revolution
In 2003, Forrest founded Fortescue Metals Group (FMG), a bold venture aimed at breaking the duopoly of mining giants BHP and Rio Tinto in the iron ore sector. Many doubted his ability to compete, but Forrest proved them wrong. He secured access to rich iron ore deposits in the Pilbara and undertook massive infrastructure development, including building railroads and the Herb Elliott Port in Port Hedland.
By leveraging innovative financing models and negotiating key partnerships, particularly with Chinese steelmakers, Forrest transformed FMG into one of the world’s largest and most efficient iron ore producers. His success not only redefined the Australian mining landscape but also deepened Australia’s economic ties with Asia.
In 2011, Forrest stepped down as CEO but remained as chairman and later transitioned into a non-executive role, allowing him to focus on broader global initiatives.
Minderoo Foundation: Philanthropy with Purpose
Alongside his wife Nicola Forrest, Andrew established the Minderoo Foundation in 2001. What began as a family-focused charity has grown into one of the most influential philanthropic institutions in Australia. The foundation has committed over AUD 2 billion to initiatives spanning:
- Ending modern slavery (with the Walk Free initiative and Global Slavery Index)
- Early childhood development
- Indigenous empowerment
- Cancer research and health innovation
- Ocean sustainability and disaster recovery
Minderoo embodies Forrest’s belief that business success must go hand in hand with social responsibility. In 2013, he became the first Australian to sign The Giving Pledge, promising to donate the majority of his wealth to philanthropic causes.
Green Energy Vision: Fortescue Future Industries (FFI)
In the 2020s, Forrest pivoted his focus to renewable energy and climate action. Through Fortescue Future Industries (FFI), he aims to transition Fortescue into a clean energy powerhouse. FFI is investing billions in green hydrogen, ammonia, and renewable infrastructure, with projects spanning Australia, South America, the Middle East, and Africa.
Forrest has positioned himself at the forefront of the global green energy revolution, frequently stating that “green hydrogen is the fuel of the future.” His ambition is not just commercial, he views the energy transition as a moral obligation to combat climate change and protect future generations.
Controversies and Criticism
Like many high-profile figures, Forrest has faced criticism and legal battles, especially around environmental issues, Indigenous land rights, and corporate governance. However, he has often engaged directly with communities and made efforts to support Indigenous employment and inclusion in business.
Awards and Recognition
- Appointed Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 2017 for distinguished service to the mining sector and philanthropy.
- Named Australian of the Year (WA) in 2020.
- Included in Forbes’ and Bloomberg’s lists of billionaires and influential global leaders.
Personal Life
Andrew Forrest is married to Nicola Forrest, and the couple has three children. Despite his immense wealth, Forrest often presents himself with humility and a sense of mission. He remains a passionate advocate for education, Indigenous inclusion, and global cooperation on sustainability.
Net Worth
As of April 2025, Andrew Forrest’s net worth is estimated at $16.1 billion, positioning him as the fifth-richest person in Australia, according to Forbes. This figure reflects a decline from previous years, primarily due to a significant drop in Fortescue Metals Group’s share price, which fell by more than a third since the last assessment.
Interesting Facts About Andrew Forrest
- Nicknamed “Twiggy” – He got this nickname due to his slim frame in his younger years, which ironically contrasts with his towering presence in the business world today.
- Outback Roots – Raised on a 500,000-acre cattle station, Forrest attributes much of his resilience and work ethic to life in remote Western Australia.
- Self-Made Billionaire – Although from a notable family, Forrest built his fortune from scratch, transforming FMG into one of the world’s top iron ore exporters.
- First Australian to Sign the Giving Pledge – He and Nicola Forrest were the first Australians to publicly commit to giving away the majority of their wealth.
- Major Player in the Green Energy Revolution – Through Fortescue Future Industries, he plans to make Australia a global leader in green hydrogen and decarbonization.
- Slavery Abolition Advocate – His Walk Free initiative publishes the Global Slavery Index, a globally recognized report on modern slavery.
- Reacquired His Childhood Property – Forrest bought back the Minderoo Station, the land his family lost decades earlier, turning it into a philanthropic and business hub.
- Passionate About Indigenous Empowerment – He’s been a vocal supporter of Indigenous employment and economic participation in Australia.
- Maintains Joint Business Ventures Despite Separation – Even after separating from his wife Nicola in 2023, the two continue to jointly manage their business empire and foundation.
- Has a Unique Vision for Business – Forrest often describes wealth as a “tool for good” and believes capitalism must be aligned with environmental and social ethics.
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