Fortescue Metals has confirmed that executive chairman Andrew “Twiggy” Forrest has been cleared of allegations regarding an alleged relationship with a company employee, following an independent investigation.
The probe was launched after the company received an anonymous letter making unspecified claims about Dr Forrest’s conduct.
According to a Fortescue spokesperson, the law firm Seyfarth Shaw LLP concluded that “none of the matters in the letter were substantiated” and found no adverse findings against Dr Forrest. The company did not disclose the specific nature of the allegations.
Background on the Allegations
The Australian Financial Review reported that the investigation examined whether Dr Forrest, 61, had engaged in a relationship with a Fortescue employee.
Just days before the investigation’s findings were made public, Dr Forrest and his wife, Nicola Forrest, announced they were separating after 31 years of marriage.
Independent Legal Review
Fortescue said Seyfarth Shaw was chosen for the investigation because of its expertise in matters of this nature and its independence — the firm had never previously represented either Fortescue or Dr Forrest.
The company emphasized that the law firm’s fees were not contingent on any particular finding or outcome. Seyfarth Shaw was granted full access to electronic records, documents, employees, and other relevant information to conduct a comprehensive forensic review.
The investigation was led by Darren Perry, Seyfarth Shaw’s Australian managing partner.
Whistleblower Commitment
Fortescue reiterated its commitment to maintaining multiple channels for employees to lodge complaints — anonymously or in person — in accordance with recognized whistleblower protocols.
The company stated it will continue to uphold these procedures to ensure staff concerns are addressed fairly and transparently.