Billionaire Profile
Angela Bennett
Global Rank
#2735

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Angela Bennett

CEO, Wright Prospecting
AU
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.3B
As of December 2025
Age
81
Source
Mining
Industry
metals-mining
Citizenship
AU

Biography

Angela Bennett, born circa 1943, is an Australian mining heiress and businesswoman. Her wealth is primarily derived from royalties from iron ore production in Western Australia, stemming from Wright Prospecting, a company founded by her father, Peter Wright. Over the years, she has played a pivotal role in the mining industry, navigating legal battles and making strategic business decisions. With an estimated net worth of $1.3 billion, Bennett continues to be a significant figure in the Australian business landscape, known for her reclusive nature and focus on capital preservation.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Angela Bennett was born circa 1943 in Australia. She is the eldest adopted daughter of Pauline McClemans and Peter Wright. Her father, Peter Wright, co-founded Wright Prospecting with Lang Hancock. Bennett grew up within a family deeply involved in the mining industry, which provided her with a unique perspective and understanding of the sector from a young age. The family's involvement in the Pilbara iron ore operations laid the foundation for their wealth.

Rise to Success

After her father's sudden death in 1985, Angela Bennett, along with her brother Michael Wright, took over Wright Prospecting. This marked a significant turning point, as they prioritized retaining the company's royalty interests in iron ore deposits. A key achievement came in 2010 when Bennett received A$1 billion from Gina Rinehart after a legal battle related to the Rhodes Ridges iron ore mine. Bennett has also been involved in significant legal disputes, including a case in 2012 against Rinehart regarding the Hope Downs mine.

Key Business Strategies

Bennett's business strategy has centered on securing and managing royalty streams from iron ore production, particularly in Western Australia. Her leadership of Wright Prospecting has involved strategic asset management and a focus on preserving the value of the company's royalty portfolio. Bennett's approach emphasizes privacy and strategic asset allocation, distinguishing her from other magnates. In 2025, a transaction involved selling a majority interest in the Rhodes Ridge iron ore project to Mitsui & Co.

Philanthropy

Information on Bennett's specific philanthropic initiatives is limited due to her private nature. However, her wealth allows her to support various causes. While the exact details of her philanthropic activities are not widely publicized, her focus on capital preservation suggests a strategic approach to charitable giving, likely aligned with her overall business philosophy.

Career Milestones

1985

Took over Wright Prospecting

After the death of her father, Peter Wright, Angela Bennett took over Wright Prospecting with her brother, Michael Wright, which was a pivotal moment in her career.

2010

Settlement with Gina Rinehart

Received A$1 billion from Gina Rinehart after a legal battle over the Rhodes Ridges iron ore mine.

2025

Sold Stake in Rhodes Ridge

Sold a 15% stake in the Rhodes Ridges iron ore deposit to Mitsui & Co for A$2 billion.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

General Philanthropy

Not publicly available

Undisclosed

Information is limited due to her private nature.

Controversies & Challenges

2012

Legal battle with Gina Rinehart

Sued Gina Rinehart to recover 50% of tenements 4, 5, and 6 of the Hope Downs mine.

2017

Intra-Family Litigation

Her brother, Julian Wright, initiated legal proceedings against her and the estate of their late brother Michael Wright.