Summary
Andrew Forrest, famously known as “Twiggy,” is one of Australia’s most influential businessmen and the country’s second-richest person, just behind Gina Rinehart.
In 1994, he founded his first mining company, Anaconda Nickel, later renamed Minara Resources. Nine years later, he launched Fortescue Metals Group (FMG), which supplies China with iron ore and has grown into the world’s fourth-largest producer of the commodity.
In recent years, Forrest has shifted his focus toward transforming FMG into a green energy leader, investing heavily in sustainable energy projects through Fortescue Future Industries. This subsidiary explores renewable energy solutions, including hydrogen, with the goal of producing green steel in Australia.
Beyond mining and energy, Forrest has also expanded into agriculture, capitalizing on China’s growing demand for meat and dairy products.
Who Is Andrew Forrest?
Andrew Forrest, or “Twiggy,” is an Australian mining magnate and philanthropist. He began his career in 1994 by founding Anaconda Nickel, later rebranded as Minara Resources.
In 2003, he established Fortescue Metals Group, which holds extensive iron ore tenements in Western Australia’s Pilbara region. Today, FMG ranks as the fourth-largest iron ore producer globally. Although Elizabeth Gaines now serves as CEO, Forrest remains Chairman and FMG’s largest shareholder.
Outside mining, he has diversified into cattle farming and agriculture, driven by surging Chinese demand for premium meat and dairy products. At age 60, he is deeply committed to sustainable energy, with FMG actively developing renewable energy ventures through Fortescue Future Industries.
In his personal life, Forrest is recognized for his philanthropy. In 2013, he signed the Giving Pledge, promising to donate most of his wealth to charitable causes.
Andrew Forrest Net Worth 2025
According to Forbes, Andrew Forrest’s net worth in 2025 stands at $15.7 billion USD.
Born in Perth, Western Australia, Forrest is the son of cattle station managers and the great-great nephew of Sir John Forrest, the state’s first Premier. He earned degrees in economics and politics from the University of Western Australia.
After working as a stockbroker, he became the founding CEO of Anaconda Nickel, a move that marked the start of his mining empire.
In 2022, he invested $210 million in the Australia-Asia Power Link project, aimed at building the world’s largest solar plant, battery, and undersea power cable to supply clean energy to Singapore and Indonesia.
Forrest also made headlines for filing a criminal complaint against Facebook, accusing the platform of failing to stop scams using his image in cryptocurrency ads.
His real estate portfolio is equally impressive, including:
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Lizard Island on the Great Barrier Reef ($42 million, acquired 2021)
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A Sydney crashpad
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A lakefront property in Point Piper
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The luxury yacht Pangaea, registered in Montego Bay, Jamaica
Early Life
Forrest grew up on Minderoo Station, his family’s cattle ranch in the Pilbara region. Despite struggling with a speech impediment as a child, he overcame it while attending Hale School.
After earning his degree, he worked as a stockbroker before founding Anaconda Nickel in his early 30s. The company became one of Australia’s leading mineral exporters.
In 2003, Forrest acquired Allied Mining and Processing, which evolved into FMG. The company controls major deposits at Tongolo, Cloudbreak, Christmas Creek, and Mount Nicholas. Through his private company, The Metal Group, he remains FMG’s largest shareholder.
In 2009, Forrest achieved a personal dream by buying back Minderoo Station, which his family had sold in 1998 due to debt and drought.
Career Achievements
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Founder of Anaconda Nickel (1994) – now Minara Resources
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Founder of Fortescue Metals Group (2003) – world’s 4th largest iron ore producer
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Major investor in green energy via Fortescue Future Industries
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Expansion into agriculture and cattle farming
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Significant real estate and philanthropic contributions
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Finalist for Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year (2011)
Conclusion: Andrew Forrest Net Worth 2025
Andrew Forrest’s journey from a cattle station in Western Australia to a $15.7 billion fortune is a testament to bold vision, strategic risk-taking, and diversification.
From iron ore to green energy, agriculture, and philanthropy, Forrest has built an empire that continues to evolve. As Chairman of Fortescue Metals Group, he remains a driving force in both global mining and the transition toward sustainable energy.