Billionaire Profile
Harry Triguboff
Global Rank
#123

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Harry Triguboff

CEO, Meriton
AU
Real-Time Net Worth
$19.8B
As of December 2025
Age
92
Source
Real estate
Industry
real-estate
Citizenship
AU

Biography

Harry Triguboff, the Australian real estate magnate and founder of Meriton, is a prominent figure in the property development industry. Born in China in 1933, his journey from a textile background to becoming a billionaire showcases his entrepreneurial spirit and strategic vision. Triguboff's net worth is estimated at $19.8 billion, making him one of Australia's wealthiest individuals. His career, marked by the establishment of Meriton in 1963, has seen him build over 79,000 apartments across Australia, significantly impacting the country's urban landscape. Known for his high-rise developments, he has been a major proponent of apartment living, influencing housing preferences and contributing to the growth of cities like Sydney, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Harry Oskar Triguboff was born on March 3, 1933, in Dalian, China, to Russian Jewish parents. His family moved to China to escape antisemitism in the Russian Empire. Triguboff spent his early years in Tianjin, China, where his father ran a successful trading store. The family later obtained landing permits for Australia in 1946.

Rise to Success

Triguboff's career began in the textile industry before he transitioned into real estate. He bought a block of land in Roseville, Sydney, in 1960 and built his first apartment block. In 1963, he founded Meriton Apartments Pty Ltd, which has since become Australia's largest residential property developer. Under his leadership, Meriton has built over 79,000 apartments, including iconic buildings like World Tower in Sydney. Triguboff's strategic focus on high-density living and his ability to identify market trends have been key to his success.

Key Business Strategies

Triguboff's business acumen is evident in his long-term investment strategy. He often rented out unsold apartments during economic downturns, which allowed him to maintain cash flow and benefit from market recovery. His focus on prime locations and building high-quality apartments has also enhanced Meriton's reputation. Moreover, he has been a proponent of population growth and has consistently advocated for policies that support the real estate sector. His company has also expanded into the hospitality sector with the Meriton Suites brand, adding to his diverse business portfolio.

Philanthropy

Harry Triguboff is known for his philanthropy through the Harry Triguboff Foundation, supporting various causes including religious groups, schools, and medical research. He donates approximately $3 million annually to philanthropic endeavors.

Career Milestones

1963

Founded Meriton Apartments Pty Ltd

Established Meriton, which became Australia's largest residential property developer.

1990

Appointed Member of the Order of Australia

Recognized for service to building, construction, and philanthropy.

1999

Appointed Officer of the Order of Australia

Recognized for service to the community and residential construction.

2004

Completed World Tower

Completed World Tower, Sydney's tallest residential apartment building at the time.

2020

Awarded Lifetime Achievement Award

Recognized by The CEO Magazine for his contributions to the property industry.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

General Philanthropy

Harry Triguboff Foundation

$3M+

Provides financial support to various causes including religious groups, schools, and medical research.

Immigration Support

Shorashim Center Project

Unknown

Funded a project at the Shorashim Center to assist immigrants to Israel

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"I built it for me. If a dynasty comes of it, so much the better."

Leadership Principles

Long-term vision

Consistently focusing on the long-term potential of real estate investments and market trends.

High-density living

Pioneering high-density living options in Australia and challenging the preference for single-family homes.

Financial Acumen

Utilizing strategies such as renting unsold units during downturns to ensure financial stability and benefit from market recovery.