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Billionaire Profile
Gerry Harvey
Global Rank
#1198

Image: U.S. Navy photo by Chief Photographer's Mate Johnny Bivera | Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Gerry Harvey

CEO, Retail
AUSTRALIA
Real-Time Net Worth
$3.521B
Estimated based on Retail stock value as of March 6, 2026
-0.54% (24h)
Age
86
Source
Retail
Industry
Fashion & Retail
Citizenship
AUSTRALIA

Biography

Gerry Harvey is an Australian retail entrepreneur and billionaire, best known as the co-founder and executive chairman of Harvey Norman Holdings Limited. Born on September 18, 1939, Harvey is 86 years old as of February 3, 2026. He co-founded Harvey Norman in 1982, which grew into a multinational retail giant specializing in furniture, electronics, appliances, and home goods. His main source of wealth is retail, and his net worth is estimated to be $3.9 Billion. Harvey's career began in the 1960s, and his hands-on approach to business and outspoken commentary have made him a prominent figure in the Australian business landscape.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Gerry Harvey was born on September 18, 1939, in Springwood, New South Wales, Australia. He attended schools in Bathurst and Katoomba before moving to Sydney to attend university at age 17, but dropped out. His early career involved door-to-door sales, selling vacuum cleaners and refrigerators for Goodwins of Newtown. This experience honed his sales skills and provided a foundation for his future ventures.

Rise to Success: Founding Harvey Norman

In 1982, Harvey partnered with Ian Norman to form Harvey Norman Holdings Limited. The company's innovative retail model, which combined independent retailers under a unified brand, quickly expanded. Harvey Norman went public on the Australian Securities Exchange in 1987. Under Harvey's leadership, the company expanded aggressively through property development and international franchising.

Key Business Strategies

Harvey is known for his hands-on approach and outspoken views on business. His strategies have included leveraging integrated retail and real estate assets and a high reward-based remuneration structure for salespeople. Harvey has also been involved in advocating for measures like import tariffs to protect domestic retailers.

Philanthropy

While specific amounts are difficult to ascertain, Harvey is known for supporting various charitable causes.

Career Milestones

1982

Co-founded Harvey Norman

Co-founded Harvey Norman with Ian Norman, establishing the retail chain.

1987

Harvey Norman Goes Public

Harvey Norman Holdings Limited listed on the Australian Securities Exchange.

2009

Order of Australia

Awarded the Order of Australia (AO).

2014

Australian Retail Hall of Fame

Inducted into the Australian Retail Hall of Fame.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Charity

Various Charitable Causes

Undisclosed

Supports various charities.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"“The money side of it, your assets, I couldn't give a damn. At the end of the day you've got to be happy and healthy, nothing else matters.”"

Leadership Principles

Hands-on Approach

Maintains a direct involvement in the company's operations.

Adaptability

Adapts to changing consumer preferences and market dynamics.

Investment in People

Constantly invests in people

Controversies & Challenges

2008

Comments on Homelessness

Made controversial comments about charity for the homeless.

2021

JobKeeper Controversy

Harvey Norman received $22 million in JobKeeper funds during the COVID-19 pandemic, which drew criticism.

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