Nicola Forrest

Nicola Forrest AO is a prominent philanthropist and led the diversification of the Minderoo Foundation to provide a holistic approach to community development, particularly through education and the arts, believing an integrated approach is essential to build sustainable empowerment in individuals and communities.

In September 2015, Mrs Forrest was awarded the University of Canberra’s Chancellor’s Award for Services and Philanthropy.

She is Patron for Sculpture by the Sea, the Kimberley Rock Art Foundation and Impact100 WA. She was also a director & chair of the Black Swan Theatre Company and in October 2014, was appointed as a member of the Prime Minister’s Community Business Partnership.

Along with her philanthropic work, Mrs Forrest is also a director of the Minderoo Group (one of Australia’s largest private companies) and managing director of Minderoo Station.

In 2019, Mrs Forrest was awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to the community through philanthropic support for education and the arts, to business, and to the community.