Early Life and Education
James Packer was born in Sydney, Australia, on September 8, 1967. He is the son of media mogul Kerry Packer and Roslyn Packer, a philanthropist. His grandfather was Sir Frank Packer. Packer was educated at Cranbrook School in Bellevue Hill, Sydney. Despite his family's wealth and influence, he did not attend university after obtaining his Higher School Certificate (HSC).
Rise to Success
Packer inherited control of Consolidated Press Holdings Limited, the family company, as well as investments in Crown Resorts and other companies. He served as the executive chairman of Publishing and Broadcasting Limited (PBL) and Consolidated Media Holdings. His career highlights include his role in expanding Crown Resorts, a casino and resort company, and his investments in online classified sites Seek and Carsales.com.
Key Business Strategies
Packer diversified his investments into the entertainment and gaming industry, primarily through Crown Resorts. He focused on creating a worldwide gambling empire. Packer also acquired stakes in online classified sites and formed joint ventures. His strategies have included investments in high-end casinos and luxury resorts. He has also invested in real estate.
Philanthropy
Packer has been involved in philanthropy through the Packer Family Foundation and the Crown Resorts Foundation. In July 2014, the two foundations launched the A$200 million National Philanthropic Fund, one of Australia's largest philanthropic commitments. The fund supports Indigenous education opportunities, the arts and culture, and partnerships with organizations that encourage and foster social cohesion. In 2023, he donated $7 million to the University of New South Wales for mental health research.
