Billionaire Profile
Gina Rinehart
Global Rank
#56

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Gina Rinehart

CEO, Hancock Prospecting
AU
Real-Time Net Worth
$30.5B
As of December 2025
Age
71
Source
Mining
Industry
metals-mining
Citizenship
AU

Biography

Gina Rinehart is an Australian mining magnate and businesswoman, currently ranked as the wealthiest person in Australia with a net worth of $30.5 billion. She serves as the Executive Chairwoman of Hancock Prospecting, a company she inherited and transformed into a global powerhouse through strategic expansions and the development of the Roy Hill iron ore mine. Her career spans several decades, marked by significant achievements in the mining industry and diversification into agriculture, media, and energy sectors. Rinehart's leadership has been pivotal in shaping the Australian economy and has led to her recognition as one of the most influential figures in the country.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Georgina Hope Rinehart was born on February 9, 1954, in Perth, Western Australia. She is the only child of Lang Hancock, a prominent iron ore magnate, and Hope Margaret Nicholas. Her early life was spent in the Pilbara region, and she attended St Hilda's Anglican School for Girls in Perth. She briefly studied economics at the University of Sydney before joining her father's business, gaining a deep understanding of the iron ore industry.

Rise to Success

After her father's death in 1992, Rinehart became the Executive Chairman of Hancock Prospecting Pty Ltd (HPPL). She transformed the financially troubled company into one of Australia's most successful private mining companies. Her most significant achievement has been the development of the Roy Hill iron ore mine, a major project that started shipments to Asia in 2015.

Key Business Strategies

Rinehart's key business strategies have included maintaining tight control over operations, expanding into areas outside the mining industry, and diversification into agriculture, real estate, and energy. She made substantial investments in media and has expanded her holdings into various sectors to ensure long-term financial sustainability.

Philanthropy

Gina Rinehart is involved in numerous philanthropic endeavors, particularly in supporting education for women and girls. Her charitable initiatives include sponsorships in sports and contributions to organizations that help underprivileged children in Cambodia. She has also been recognized for her philanthropic efforts in Australia, receiving the Officer of the Order of Australia (AO).

Career Milestones

1992

Executive Chairman of Hancock Prospecting

Took over the leadership of Hancock Prospecting after her father's death and transformed the company.

2015

Roy Hill Mine shipments began

Oversaw the start of shipments from the Roy Hill iron ore project, a significant achievement in her career.

2022

Officer of the Order of Australia (AO)

Appointed as an Officer of the Order of Australia for her contributions to the mining sector, philanthropy, and sports patronage.

2023

Named Western Australian of the Year

Recognized for her contribution to business and philanthropy.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

Hope Foundation scholarship

Undisclosed

Supports underprivileged Cambodian girls in pursuing a university education.

Health

Royal Flying Doctor Service

Undisclosed

Supports the organization in buying aircraft and preparing for the COVID pandemic.

Sports

Sponsorship of Olympic sports

Undisclosed

Sponsors four Olympic sports: swimming, rowing, volleyball, and synchronised swimming.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"If you're jealous of those with more money, don't just sit there and complain. Do something to make more money yourself – spend less time drinking or smoking and socializing, and more time working."

"Seeing Hope Downs develop from a few holes in the ground and knowing the effort it took to achieve its first mines, developing and expanding the mega Roy Hill project, seeing our other interests in the pipeline come along, and establishing our large and world-class agribusiness are a number of my proudest moments."

Leadership Principles

Vision and Strategic Planning

Rinehart has demonstrated a strong ability to foresee industry trends and develop strategic plans for long-term growth.

Financial Discipline

Maintaining tight control over operations and managing debt effectively.

Diversification

Diversifying into multiple sectors to reduce risks and create a more robust business.

Philanthropic Commitment

Supporting charitable causes and contributing to the community.

Controversies & Challenges

2012

Wealth Advice Controversy

Criticized for her comments on how to achieve wealth, with some considering them out of touch.

2022

Father's Comments

Rinehart declined to apologize for comments made by her father in a 1984 television interview.

2023

Portrait Controversy

Demanded the removal of a portrait by Vincent Namatjira from the National Gallery of Australia.

2023

Legal Disputes with Children

Ongoing legal battles with her children regarding the family trust.