Billionaire Profile
Clive Palmer
Global Rank
#1072

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Clive Palmer

CEO, Mineralogy
AU
Real-Time Net Worth
$3.5B
As of December 2025
Age
71
Source
Mining
Industry
metals-mining
Citizenship
AU

Biography

Clive Frederick Palmer (born March 26, 1954) is an Australian billionaire businessman and politician. His wealth stems primarily from his mining interests, especially iron ore royalties through Mineralogy. Palmer's career includes significant achievements in mining, such as founding Mineralogy and acquiring extensive iron ore reserves. He also founded the Palmer United Party and has been involved in various controversies, including legal disputes and political campaigns. His business ventures have expanded into property, resorts, and other investments, contributing to his estimated net worth. Palmer's career highlights demonstrate his ambition, risk-taking, and resilience in both the business and political arenas.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Clive Frederick Palmer was born on March 26, 1954, in Footscray, Victoria, Australia. He spent his early years in Williamstown before his family moved to Queensland in 1963. He grew up primarily on the Gold Coast, attending Aquinas College and Southport State High School. Palmer studied law, journalism, and politics at the University of Queensland from 1973 to 1975, but he did not complete the course. He later earned a Diploma of Law.

Rise to Success

Palmer's career began in real estate in the early 1980s, where he achieved success during a property boom on the Gold Coast. He later transitioned into the mining industry, founding Mineralogy in 1984. The company acquired iron ore deposits in Western Australia, marking a pivotal moment in his career. He later expanded his mining interests through Waratah Coal.

Key Business Strategies

Palmer's business strategy included acquiring mineral licenses, resource contracts, and diversifying his investments. His ventures extended into property, resorts, sports, and tourism, including the Palmer Coolum Resort and the proposed Titanic II project. He also acquired the Queensland Nickel refinery in 2009.

Philanthropy

While specific amounts are not available in the search results, Palmer has been involved in various philanthropic activities and initiatives. He has hosted events and supported causes related to the community.

Career Milestones

1984

Founded Mineralogy

Established Mineralogy to explore and develop iron ore resources.

2006

Signed deal with CITIC

Signed a deal with CITIC to develop iron ore deposits in Western Australia.

2013

Founded Palmer United Party

Founded the Palmer United Party and was elected to Parliament.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Community Support

Christmas Buffet Lunch

Not Available

Hosted a Christmas buffet lunch for disadvantaged people.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""I've never said my wealth is more than one dollar. I've got no idea," he told AAP."

Controversies & Challenges

2020

Fraud Charges

Charged with four counts of fraud related to alleged improper money transfers before the 2013 Federal Election.

2020

WA Border Closure

Challenged the Western Australian government's border closure, claiming it was unconstitutional.

2023

300 Billion Lawsuit against Australia

Palmer sued the Australian government for $300 billion in damages due to an iron ore project that has been delayed. The case was brought under the controversial Investor-State Dispute Settlement (ISDS) mechanism.