Australian Story: Apr 25

Australian Story on Monday profiles “reluctant billionaire” Nicola Forrest, who shares on personal loss and philanthropy.

In a television exclusive, Nicola Forrest steps out of the shadow of her at-times controversial husband Andrew “Twiggy” Forrest to explain the very personal motivation behind the family’s philanthropy.

For much of their 30-year marriage, Ms Forrest has concentrated on filling the roles of wife and mother, shunning the spotlight to protect her children from the glare of public attention.

Now, she feels ready to use her influence to give voice to a cause close to her heart.

The Forrest family’s third child, Matilda, was stillborn. Since losing her, the Forrests have been on a personal quest for answers.

“I think the cornerstone for my mum and my dad in their work is that the way in which they lost Matilda was completely out of their control and I think that is what definitely drove them to think what is in our ability to change? What can we control in outcome for other children?” says daughter Grace Forrest.

As the Forrest’s wealth grew from their successful Fortescue mining venture, so too has the family’s philanthropy.

Now with an estimated net worth of $25 billion, they’ve promised to give away the vast majority in their lifetime, with some funds donated to their Thrive by Five initiative.

“The vision and the mission statement are to help every Australian child reach their full potential,” says Nicola Forrest.

“The thing that I had absolutely learnt was 90 percent of the brain is formed in those first five years. And more than 20 per cent of children arrive at school developmentally delayed here in Australia, which is just unspeakable.”

As she steps into the spotlight, Ms Forrest is aware that not all attention will be positive. But she’s determined to forge ahead with her campaign to lobby politicians for early education reform.

“I’ve decided that if not me, then who? And I also realise that I have the opportunity to speak to people that other people may not have access to. And so I’ve decided that I am prepared to use my voice to help others.”

Producer: Caitlin Shea

8pm Monday on ABC.