Billionaire Profile
Sam Tarascio
Global Rank
#2998

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Sam Tarascio

CEO, Salta Properties
AU
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.1B
As of December 2025
Age
81
Source
Real estate
Industry
real-estate
Citizenship
AU

Biography

Sam Tarascio, born in Sicily in 1944, is an Australian real estate mogul with an estimated net worth of $1.1 billion as of December 5, 2025. He is the founder of Salta Properties, a prominent real estate development and investment company in Melbourne, which he established in 1972 after a career in pharmaceutical sales. Tarascio's career spans over five decades, marked by his vision, entrepreneurial drive, and strategic investments in commercial, industrial, and residential properties. He is known for his long-term approach to property and commitment to creating enduring value. He was inducted into the Australian Property Hall of Fame in June 2025, recognizing his significant contributions to the property industry and the community.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Salvatore "Sam" Tarascio was born in Vizzini, Sicily, in 1944. At the age of five, in 1949, he emigrated to Australia with his family. He was raised by Sicilian migrant parents in Werribee, Melbourne. His early experiences as a migrant shaped his drive and determination to succeed. In his early years, he worked in sales before venturing into the pharmaceutical industry.

Rise to Success

Tarascio founded Salta Properties in 1972, after purchasing swampland and constructing a warehouse. Over the years, Tarascio built a diverse portfolio of commercial and industrial properties across Melbourne. He recognized early on the importance of logistics and industrial development, leading to the creation of Westgate Logistics. This business was later sold to Linfox in 2008. Salta Properties, now run by his son, Sam Jr., has completed over 150 projects and has a multi-billion-dollar portfolio.

Key Business Strategies

Key to Tarascio's success has been his ability to identify and acquire prime land, his long-term buy-and-hold strategy, and his focus on customer service. His vision extends to creating places of enduring value, adapting to market changes, and fostering strong relationships with tenants and partners. The company has expanded to include industrial, commercial, and residential developments, including landmark projects like the Victoria Gardens Shopping Centre.

Philanthropy

While specific details of his philanthropy are not readily available from the search results, he is known for his commitment to community and creating assets that will be enjoyed for generations.

Career Milestones

1972

Founded Salta Properties

Established Salta Properties after working in pharmaceutical sales, building a warehouse for Hoechst.

2005

Managing Director of Salta Properties

Assumed the role of Managing Director of Salta Properties.

2018

Published Autobiography "My Way"

Published his autobiography detailing his journey in the property industry.

2024

Legacy Award

Received the Legacy Award at the Property Council Australia's People in Property Awards in Melbourne.

2025

Inducted into Australian Property Hall of Fame

Recognized for his outstanding contribution to the property industry, the community, and the shaping of Australian cities.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Community

Not Available

Undisclosed

Details of specific philanthropic initiatives are not readily available in the provided search results.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""I've been 'held captive' by my work for more than five decades, and I still see it as a great privilege — to create places where people live, work, and come together. It's not just about what you build, but how you build it — with care, with respect for community, and with a view to the future.”"

Leadership Principles

Visionary Leadership

Demonstrates an uncanny ability to see opportunities where others don't.

Dedication and Hard Work

Achieved success through extraordinary hard work and dedication.

Commitment to Community

Creating assets that benefit the community for generations.

Customer-centric Approach

Focusing on customer service and delivering great customer experiences.

Controversies & Challenges

2025

Sale of Melbourne CBD Site

Salta sold a major development site in Melbourne CBD due to increased risks and high taxes imposed by the Victorian government.