$1.9 billion (US) in net worth
Age: 69 years
DOB: 26 March 1954
Birthplace: Footscray, Victoria
About Clive Palmer
Clive Palmer, an iconic figure in the world of Australian business and politics, has left an indelible mark on the nation’s landscape. Born in Melbourne, he is a self-made billionaire renowned for his audacious ventures and larger-than-life persona. With a career spanning several decades, he has ventured into diverse sectors, including mining, real estate and politics – making him both a polarising and influential figure.
Palmer’s journey to prominence began with his foray into the mining industry, where he amassed significant wealth through his company Mineralogy. His bold vision led to the development of the massive Galilee Basin coal project, a venture that brought both praise and criticism. Beyond business, Clive Palmer also made headlines for his entry into Australian politics, founding the Palmer United Party and serving as a Member of Parliament.
Known for his eccentricity, legal battles and populist policies, Clive Palmer continues to be a captivating and divisive figure in Australian public life, leaving an enduring legacy that sparks both admiration and controversy.
How Did Clive Palmer Make His Money?
Clive Palmer made a substantial portion of his wealth through the mining sector, which – despite its controversies – has generated significant income for him.
However, Palmer has also invested in the real estate market over the years. He owns several properties and resorts, including the luxury Palmer Coolum Golf Resort on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland.
At the same time, he has diversified his wealth through investments in various industries, notably stocks, bonds and other assets.
Political Career
As well as being a prominent businessman, Clive Palmer has also ventured into politics – making a significant impact on the country’s political landscape in the process.
He founded the Palmer United Party (PUP) and has served as a Member of Parliament in the Australian House of Representatives. Known for his populist policies and outspoken style, Palmer’s
political career brought both attention and controversy. He played a role in key policy debates, particularly on issues related to mining and resources.
Other Notable Achievements
In 2002, Palmer was made an adjunct professor of business with the Faculty of Business and Law at Deakin University. Over a four-year stint, he delivered several lectures to MBA students. A couple of years later, he was made an adjunct professor of management on the Gold Coast by Bond University.
Palmer was previously the owner of Gold Coast United, who played in the A-League for three seasons before folding. He was also invited to become joint secretary general of the World Leadership Alliance – a council promoting democracy that also included Bill Clinton and Aung San Suu Kyi, the opposition leader in Myanmar. Additionally, he assumed the role of president of the World Economic Council – the alliance’s business chapter.
Amidst much fanfare, during a press conference in New York in 2013, he also announced plans to build a modern-day replica of the Titanic. The vessel was to be built in China. However, this project now appears to have stalled, or been shelved completely.
Personal Life
Palmer resides in a gated mansion located on Sovereign Islands – an exclusive community on the Gold Coast. He also owns a number of other properties in Queensland and one in the Bora Bora.
Currently, he has been married for 15 years to Anna, with whom he has two children – Mary and Lucy. Previously, he was married for 22 years to Susan Parker. He had two children with her, a son called Michael and a daughter called Emily. Unfortunately, Susan died in 2006 from cancer.
Clive is also an avid car collector, who is believed to include a Mercedes-Benz 770 previously belonging to Adolf Hitler and a Rolls-Royce owned by King Edward VIII in his portfolio.