Archives: Media Releases

Mining magnate Gina Rinehart has topped the 2024 Financial Review Rich List for the fifth consecutive year, breaking through the $40 billion barrier for the first time – up $3 billion from last year.

With Australia’s wealthiest 200 now controlling $625 billion – up 11 per cent from last year – Rinehart’s estimated rise in wealth is driven by higher valuations across the mining sector. While mining and property are Rich List mainstays [five of the top 10 fortunes are built on mining], the tech sector has made a comeback this year and is growing its share of the pie faster than any other sector.  

This year marks the 41st Rich List, first published in BRW Magazine in 1983 when the total worth of Australia’s wealthiest people was $4.6 billion and it took just $10 million to make the list. It now takes $718 million to make the Rich List.

Rinehart’s wealth is $14 billion more than her closest rival – property scion Harry Triguboff, who is worth an estimated $26.49 billion.   

But it is the tech sector that is the story of 2024, with the sector responsible for $108.1 billion of this year’s list. In 2014, there were no technologists in the Rich List’s Top 10. Now, there are four: Mike Cannon-Brookes  (who’s listed in third spot alongside Annie Cannon-Brookes in light of their separation, although their wealth of $24.38 billion is still combined as they are yet to split assets), Scott Farquhar (No.5 worth $22.88 billion) and Canva’s Melanie Perkins and Cliff Obrecht (No.10 worth $13.62 billion).

In total, 28 technologists have made the Rich List, up from 24 last year – including fintech entrepreneur Jack Zhang and crypto gambling billionaires Ed Craven and Tim Heath. The tech sector is also responsible for some of the notable debutants. They include three newly discovered billionaires – Estonian-based online gaming mogul Tim Heath, the founder of CoinSpot cryptocurrency exchange, Russell Wilson, and the Lamborghini-loving founder of the LMCT+ online promotions business, Adrian Portelli.

All up, there are 11 new individuals or couples on this year’s Rich List including Simon Dyer and his family, who brought mattress brand Sealy to Australia, and today also have a range of joint ventures with New York Stock Exchange-listed Tempur Sealy. Also making the list for the first time is Queensland’sMurphy family, whose Canstruct earned $1.82 billion over five years as the long-term operator of the federal government’s offshore detention centre in Nauru.

Based on the Financial Review’s unrivalled database, the Rich List includes 13 billionaires in the elite “ten-digit club” – those with wealth exceeding $10 billion. Some Rich Listers have seen their wealth surge, including media, mining and construction baron Kerry Stokes (No.12) whose net worth increased 51 per cent year-on-year to $11.3 billion, and Alan Wilson & family (No.13) from plumbing giant Reece, whose wealth rose 63 per cent to $10.6 billion. NSW remains home to more Rich Listers – 80 in total – than any other state. 

Female representation has increased from 36 last year to 41 this year. Some of that is due to the spectacular rise of entrepreneurs like Nicky and Simone Zimmermann, worth a combined $792 million (No.180). 

Rich List co-editor Yolanda Redrup said: “The Rich List named its first two billionaires in 1987 – Robert Holmes a Court ($1.4 billion) and Kerry Packer ($1.3 billion) – now, there are 150 Australians and their families who have achieved this feat. This highlights the entrepreneurial spirit and hard work of the members of this list.

“There are nine Rich Listers who have appeared on every list since 1984, and many are household names, but the next decade could be one of changing faces, as the mean age nears 70 and billions of dollars are set to be passed onto the next generation.”

Rich List co-editor Michael Bailey said new financial reporting rules introduced by the federal government last year made this the most comprehensive Rich List ever.

“Major private companies previously exempt from publicly lodging financial reports, like Bruce Gordon’s WIN Television, ‘Caravan King’ Gerry Ryan’s Jayco, and ethanol giant Dick Honan’s Manildra, all had to reveal their profits for the first time – in some cases materially changing their estimated valuationsy.”

TOP 10 (worth a collective $222.6 billion)
1. Gina Rinehart – $40.61 billion – Mining
2. Harry Triguboff – $26.49 billion – Property
3. Mike Cannon-Brookes & Annie Cannon-Brookes – $24.38 billion – Technology
4. Anthony Pratt & family – $23.30 billion – Manufacturing
5. Scott Farquhar – $22.88 billion – Technology
6. Clive Palmer – $22.75 billion – Mining
7. Nicola Forrest – $16.92 billion – Mining
8. Andrew Forrest – $16.76 billion – Mining
9. Ivan Glasenberg – $14.86 billion – Mining
10. Melanie Perkins and Cliff Obrecht – $13.62 billion – Technology

STATE BY NUMBERS 
1. NSW – 80 Rich Listers
2. VIC – 57
3. QLD –  21
4. WA – 19
5. SA – 3
6. ACT – 2
7. NT – 1 
8. TAS – 1

The full Rich List will be available on www.afr.com and will appear in a special edition of The Australian Financial Review Magazine in this Friday’s Financial Review. High res images of AFR Magazine Rich List cover HERE

For further information, please contact:
Adrian Motte
Senior Communications Manager – Trade & Publishing
amotte@nine.com.au

Thursday, May 30, 2024

Every family has its quirks. Whether it’s much-loved traditions, mortifying memories or bittersweet bumps in the road, families aren’t just bonded by blood but by the chaotic moments which colour the lineage. It’s something that no amount of fame can change. Just ask these two… 

The Apple and The Tree is a new podcast hosted by iconic Aussie father and son duo, Richard and Christian Wilkins, taking listeners behind the closed doors of some of Australia’s best known and well-loved families. 

Some of the famous relos sitting down for a chat include father and son music legends Jimmy Barnes and David Campbell; popstar twins Jess and Lisa Origliasso (aka The Veronicas); the mega multi-hyphenate siblings Alli and Cody Simpson, and renowned cricketing brothers Brett and Shane Lee.

By challenging the idea of the ‘picture-perfect’ famous household, this podcast embraces the uniqueness of family through unfiltered, refreshingly real and relatable conversations. In each episode, Richard and Christian get personal with the familial duos, exploring their roots, family dynamics, quirks and values, with a good smattering of embarrassing stories along the way – after all, no one knows you quite like your family. 

From dreadful dad jokes, to awkward conversations shared at the dinner table, The Apple and The Tree shows that no matter what level of fame you’ve attained, family relationships and dynamics remain the same. 

Richard Wilkins said, “I’m so excited about this project. Everyone who knows me will acknowledge that my family is everything to me, and when Christian suggested that he and I should create a podcast where we talk to other family combinations, it was a total no-brainer! There will be plenty of tears and laughter and a whole lot of love as some of our favourite people join us on The Apple & The Tree.” 

Christian Wilkins said, “Anyone that’s had the pleasure of working with my Dad knows that he’s the best in the business. For years growing up I’d be sitting in the corner as he interviews the world’s biggest stars and was always in awe of his professionalism, kindness and knowledge. Naturally I wanted to create an opportunity where I’d be able to work alongside him and experience the incredible passion he has for entertainment firsthand.” 

“The only thing better than getting to do what you love, is getting to do it with the people you love too, and hopefully that’s exactly what we bring to people, from our home, too theirs (or their car, bus ride, workplace, gym or wherever else they listen to their podcasts.” 

The Apple and The Tree launches tomorrow, Thursday 30 May, with episodes dropping every Thursday on 9Now and everywhere you get your podcasts. 

For further information, please contact:
Caitlin Lynch 
Senior Communications Manager, Nine 
clynch@nine.com.au

Wednesday, May 29, 2024

Hold on to your bouquet as Married at First Sight New Zealand returns next month for a brand-new season, fast-tracked and streaming exclusively and free for Australian viewers on 9Now from June 2 at 4.00pm AEST, with new episodes dropping Sunday – Tuesday.

The New Zealand version of the world’s greatest marriage experiment show, is back for its fourth season, with more fiery drama and explosive love stories.

And in exciting news for fans, two new experts are joining the fold.

MAFS Australia legend John Aiken will be the relationship expert poised to help brides and grooms find love, while bringing his unique flair of holding participants to account. Aiken will be joined by relationship and sex therapist Jo Robertson, who has over 14 years of experience and will bring a different dynamic to the duo, offering participants practical strategies and conversations about chemistry, intimacy and affection.

John Aiken said: “I’m excited to be a part of the fresh relaunch of MAFS NZ. After being involved for over a decade with the Australian version, I can now bring all of my lessons and insights to Kiwi singles looking for love. I spent a good deal of time growing up in New Zealand and I married a Kiwi, so I feel very connected to the country and its diverse population.

“MAFS NZ will have the similar mix of drama, love and relationship learning that the audience loves. I think those who tune in will really invest in the couples and watch with interest how they navigate all the challenges.”

The eight brides and grooms walking down the aisle and taking the major leap of faith in this new season are:

Brides: Account Manager/Healing Intuitive, Madeleine (37); Content Creator, Samatha (26); Car Sales Representative, Kara (33); and Marketing Professional, Stephanie (31).

Grooms: Auctioneer and Business Owner, Michael (36); Brewer, Piripi (28); Primary School Teacher, James (31); and Aviation Officer, Nathaniel (30).

MEET THE CAST

Pop the champagne, get your popcorn ready and cosy up for your MAFS NZ fix.

MARRIED AT FIRST SIGHT NEW ZEALAND 2024
PREMIERES SUNDAY, JUNE 2 AT 4.00PM AEST
AVAILABLE TO STREAM FOR FREE ON 9NOW

LIKE 9Now on Facebook
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Visit 9Now.com.au

For further information, please contact:
Alessandra Muratore
9Network Publicity
alessandra.muratore@nine.com.au

Wednesday, May 29, 2024

With cost of living pressures and rising house prices, more than ever Australians are looking to secure their financial future by focusing on their superannuation. 

Now, a new editorial series from the Money experts at The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, Brisbane Times and WAtoday take readers step-by-step through how to create the strongest possible super balance. 

The six-part Super Fit series – with launch partner Colonial First State – covers everything from planning how much you’ll need to retire comfortably, which funds to use, the best allocation at each age, how and when to make additional contributions and how to spend in retirement. 

The specially-commissioned Super Fit stories appear in the Money section in the Wednesday editions of the Herald and The Age until June 26, and are also housed in a digital collection across the four masthead websites along with some other informative superannuation stories by prominent Money experts such as John Collett, Bec Wilson and Paul Benson.

For many people, their mandatory superannuation investment will be the largest asset they will have in their lifetime. On July 1 the rate that workplaces need to pay employees will increase to 11.5 per cent of their salary, rising to 12 per cent by July 2025. 

For young workers embarking on their career through to people approaching retirement, it’s never too late to make sure your superannuation is as healthy as possible. 

Super Fit features an interactive superannuation calculator which allows our curious audience to look to the future and see what their nest egg will look like in five, 10, 15, 20 years and beyond. 

Money Editor Dominic Powell says: “Getting your super in top shape is one of the most crucial things you can do to ensure a comfortable retirement, yet it’s something many of us don’t think about until it’s too late. Small changes now – like switching funds or making an extra contribution – could mean thousands of extra dollars in your pocket later in life.

“If you’re someone who doesn’t know where to start, Super Fit will help you take the first steps on this journey, and answer any questions you have about the most important investment you’ll (probably) ever make.”

James McCluskie, Client Director Finance & Technology, says: “Growing wealth responsibly and prioritising financial wellbeing and stability are front of mind with our readership. Super Fit presents the perfect platform for our superannuation clients. Allowing them to position themselves as a relatable fund driving superior outcomes for their current and future members that align with our readership’s values.”

For further information, please contact:
Adrian Motte
Senior Communications Manager – Trade & Publishing
amotte@nine.com.au 

Wednesday, May 29, 2024

Grand Slam tennis is back on the renowned clay courts of Roland Garros in Paris, where the best in the world will compete at the French Open starting Sunday, May 26, live and free on 9GemHD and to stream on 9Now.

In the 128th edition of Roland Garros, Nine’s exclusive coverage will showcase 15 days of competition and calling the action will be Todd Woodbridge, Jelena Dokic, Samantha Stosur and Brenton Speed for the Wide World of Sports.

Fourteen-time French Open champion Rafael Nadal is expected to make his final appearance on the courts he has dominated in a storied career. An ominous lineup will be gunning for their own glory with Novak Djokovic, Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev, fresh from winning the Italian Open, all ranked in the top four.

Australia will have its highest men’s representation at Roland Garros since 1999 as our hopes lie with Alex de Minaur (world No.11), Jordan Thompson (No.37), Alexei Popyrin (No.51) and Chris O’Connell (No.64), along with Alexander Vukic, Rinky Hijikata, Max Purcell, Thanasi Kokkinakis and Adam Walton (wildcard).

In the women’s draw, Aussies Daria Saville and Ajla Tomljanovic will take on a tough field headed by the top three players in the world: Iga Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka and Coco Gauff.

BROADCAST GUIDE

Roland Garros 2024
Sunday May 26 to Sunday June 9, live and free on 9GemHD and 9Now.

ROLAND GARROS 2024
BEGINS SUNDAY MARCH 26 AT 6.30PM 
WATCH ON 9GEMHD, STREAM ON 9NOW

EVERY MATCH STREAMING AD-FREE, LIVE & ON DEMAND WITH
FOUR COURTS IN 4K UHD ON STAN SPORT

Friday, May 24, 2024

Nine has today announced that highly regarded sales leader Jo Barton has been appointed Director of Sales – Sydney, further strengthening the Nine sales team as it focuses on helping partners reach audiences across its Total Television, Total Audio and Total Publishing platforms.

Currently Group Business Director with complete responsibility for Nine’s largest agency group, Jo has been at Nine since 2016 and has previously worked with some of the world’s largest media businesses including BBC Worldwide, EMAP UK and Australia; ACP and Bauer Magazines and News Corp Australia.   

Michael Stephenson, Nine’s Chief Sales Officer said: “Given our unique set of market leading assets, all of our teams must be cross platform athletes, experts in helping our partners connect with their audiences across our platforms. Jo has a proven track record in helping Australia’s largest brands to use our assets to deliver real business outcomes.” 

“With her TV, radio, publishing and digital experience she’s ready to lead the largest sales team in the country. I’m proud that once again we are able to promote from within, testament to our ongoing commitment to improving the capability of our entire team.”       

Barton said she is “beyond excited” to be given the opportunity to lead Nine’s Sydney sales team and represent our leading Total TV, Total Audio and Total Publishing platforms.   

“I am really looking forward to implementing the Nine sales strategy across the Sydney market, working closely with our team and our partners to create integrated cross platform solutions which deliver real business outcomes,” she said. 

“It’s a massive year for Nine, and I am privileged to lead such a passionate, professional and driven team.”

For further information, please contact:
Adrian Motte
Senior Communications Manager – Trade & Publishing
amotte@nine.com.au 

Friday, May 24, 2024

Nine today announces the appointment of Fiona Dear, currently EP of A Current Affair, as the new Director of News and Current Affairs.

This appointment comes at a time of rapid change in our news division as we continue to rise to the challenges of an ever faster, more dense media environment and an audience craving original news content that is delivered accurately and timely whenever and wherever they are.

‘Fiona is an outstanding news person, who has worked tirelessly here at Nine across all our broadcast news brands and perfectly understands our news culture of excellence. We are excited to see her lead the outstanding team of people in television news to bring the full range of news and current affairs to our audiences,’ said Michael Healy Director of Television on the appointment. ‘At Nine we pride ourselves on our news brand, that heritage lives in the hearts and minds of Australians and has done so for over 60 years.’

Fiona Dear began her career as a work experience kid at WIN Wollongong and since those heady days she has worked diligently through the WIN Network from Wagga Wagga as a reporter to Canberra for WIN as a reporter and Chief of Staff.

‘I got a call from Nine inviting me in to talk about life! And look where that took me, from Canberra to the COS in Sydney at the heart of our beating news brands, it was exhilarating and scary all at once. I was in no doubt I was working with the best in the business.’

‘I’m honoured now to be given this role, and I look forward to the challenges, the news that makes our business great and leading our people as we tell Australia’s stories every day.’

News and Current Affairs has an outstanding track record of delivering the very best original breaking news. From the recent outstanding breaking news coverage of the Bondi Junction attacks to the long form excellence in our Current Affairs portfolio of shows who work so brilliantly with our colleagues in Publishing and Radio.

Fiona will oversee the roster of Channel 9 programs from our 6pm News bulletins, breaking news teams, Today, A Current Affair and 60 Minutes.

Fiona has led the team at ACA for the past five and a half years including the handover from long time host Tracy Grimshaw to Ally Langdon who today presents the most successful Current Affairs program in Australia.

‘A Current Affair is a special family, it’s a team who care passionately about getting to the heart and soul of every story and I’m so proud to have had the opportunity to be a part of this brilliant team. I won’t be taking my eye off the ACA ball, but we will be announcing a new Executive Producer in due course,’ said Fiona today.

At Nine we continue to look for the best and most efficient way to structure our business and this alignment of News and Current Affairs within the broader Total Television business reflects the reality of how our programming teams work with the news division.

‘Fiona has been instrumental in developing some of our most important news brands. We are delighted that she will lead our News and Currents Affairs teams as they continue to build on the exceptional results they are delivering,’ said Michael Healy today.

For further information, please contact:
Victoria Buchan
Director of Communications
0408114864

Thursday, May 23, 2024

NRL on Nine will celebrate First Nations communities this week when Indigenous Round lights up your screen, live and free on Channel 9HD and streaming on 9Now from tonight, May 23 at 7.30pm.

First up, freakishly fast Indigenous All Stars Josh Addo-Carr and Tyrell Sloan will feature on Thursday Night Football when the Bulldogs host the Dragons.

Friday Night Footy is live from the home of the Garigal People, 4 Pines Park, where the deep-running rivalry between the Manly Sea Eagles and Melbourne Storm is ready to come to the fore once again. 

Storm legend Billy Slater will offer his commentary on the game from the venue, only on Channel 9, just days before he makes his final selections for the Queensland State of Origin team. Indigenous NRL legends Johnathan Thurston and Sam Thaiday also join the coverage to champion their proud heritage.

Nine’s Wide World of Sports will have exclusive access to the winning dressing rooms after the game.

The NRL Sunday Footy Show is live from 11.00am, before Sunday Arvo Footy at 3.00pm.

The NRL is calling on all fans to learn about the rich tapestry of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures in this week of celebrating their remarkable achievements on and off the field. It is also an opportunity to connect with Australians and New Zealanders of diverse races and backgrounds, fostering the power of unity. Learn more by visiting NRL.com/Indigenous.

BROADCAST SCHEDULE

Thursday, May 23

THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL – BULLDOGS v DRAGONS

Friday May 24

FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTY – SEA EAGLES v STORM

Sunday, May 26

THE SUNDAY FOOTY SHOW – from 11.00am with Billy Slater, Andrew Johns, Brad Fittler and Danika Mason.

HOSTPLUS QUEENSLAND CUP – 2.10pm, Ipswich Jets v Norths Devils.
Norths Devils will be chasing a fourth straight win when they travel to Ipswich to take on the Jets.

SUNDAY ARVO FOOTY – WARRIORS v DOLPHINS

 

Monday, May 27

7.30PM LIVE ON 9NOW – 100% FOOTY 
10.00pm on Channel 9HD in Sydney/Brisbane.Phil Gould and Paul Gallen go head to head after the latest NRL round with host James Bracey. All the latest scoops come from 9News reporter Michael Chammas.

PODCAST AVAILABLE NOW – STORIES OF ORIGIN SEASON 3 ‘ALFIE’

This season, Stories of Origin shines the spotlight on the career of the little number seven who became a giant footballing figure, Alan “Alfie” Langer. Stories of Origin Alfie is available on 9Now and wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted by Nine NRL commentator Mathew Thompson.

9NOW | APPLE | SPOTIFY

INDIGENOUS ROUND ON THE 9NETWORK
MAY 23-26, LIVE AND FREE
WATCH ON CHANNEL 9HD, STREAM ON 9NOW

Thursday, May 23, 2024