Minderoo Foundation is a modern philanthropic organisation.
We take on tough, persistent issues with the potential to drive massive change.
We incubate ideas and accelerate impact.
We push the limits of what is believed possible.
Minderoo Foundation is independent, forward thinking and seeks effective, scalable solutions. We are proudly Australian, and one of Asia’s largest philanthropies, with AUD $2 billion committed to a range of global initiatives.
We aim to provide a new or unique perspective on seemingly intractable challenges.
Most of our projects begin with a sense of curiosity – is there a better way?
Through a collaborative, evidence-based approach we strive to solve major global challenges through our key initiatives.
We both support and fund early-stage innovation, develop major programs on the ground in communities, and advocate for change at domestic and international policy forums.
Everything we do is driven by a deep care for people and a mission to improve the world for future generations.
We aim to empower both our employees and others to have a positive impact through inclusion, collaboration and, most importantly, kindness. The world needs more of it.
Early Stage
We start with the challenge “it can’t be done”. We are willing to work outside the system to back unconventional solutions. We devote research teams, pilot programs and data to tough issues.
On the Ground
By identifying the connections between issues, we create new models to push the limits of what is believed possible. We engage people at a local level to co-create solutions.
Policy
We get the right people in the room and share our proven models between philanthropists, faith, business and government leaders to develop policies for long term change.
Humility
Be vulnerable, take risks to trust others.
Courage & Determination
NEGU – we never, ever give up.
Empowerment
Go to your leader for advice, not permission.
Enthusiasm
Be the most positive person in the room.
Family
Support each other, always be kind.
Frugality
Think of ways we can do things better, faster, cheaper, safer.
Generating ideas
Always be on the lookout for breakthroughs.
Integrity
Do what you say you’re going to do.
Safety
Look out for your mates and yourself.
Stretch Targets
Always be uncomfortable with your level of challenge.
operations
Operations comprises Finance, Human Resources, Information Technology, Legal and Compliance. We are responsible for the administration of best practice processes across all our global initiatives to ensure the Minderoo Foundation runs as efficiently and effectively as possible.
Communications
Minderoo Foundation’s communication division helps to drive change through dialogues, forums, media, government relations, and public campaigns.
Investments
We believe program-related investments can stimulate private sector innovation, encourage market-driven efficiencies and attract external capital to philanthropic causes. Our Investments division weighs up returns and social impact to drive positive change.
We are prepared to lose, to come second,
to fail, in order to explore what systemic change looks like.Andrew Forrest, The Australian Financial Review Magazine, May 2018
Andrew and Nicola Forrest founded Minderoo Foundation in 2001, and continue to drive its philanthropic mission today. Andrew remains Chairman of Fortescue Metals Group, the publicly listed company he founded in 2003, which is one of the world’s main suppliers of iron ore. Dividends from Fortescue fund Minderoo Foundation’s ongoing commitment to philanthropy. We take our name from Minderoo Station, the family homestead where Andrew grew up in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. It has been a part of the Forrest family since 1878. Minderoo is an Aboriginal word meaning permanent and clean water.
Our founders, Andrew and Nicola Forrest, pictured with one of the foundation’s newest members ‘Bobbie’ – the Bright Tomorrows Start Today campaign mascot.
With over 90 staff in six international offices, we have the capacity to mobilise expert teams for local and global projects. At Minderoo Foundation we are committed to hiring the best and brightest, those with the passion and commitment to tackle the big challenges.
Our people are at the heart of everything we do and we seek talented and passionate individuals. Visit our careers page to see what opportunities are available to join our growing team.
Change can take time, at Minderoo Foundation we always think big and plan for the long-term. Our philanthropy is supported by Tattarang and its portfolio of businesses. This integrated model ensures a level of unparalleled sustainability for our philanthropic activities.
For any commercial enquiries, visit the Tattarang website.
Minderoo is committed to protecting and respecting the rights of all people including our employees, partners, and people who may be impacted by our activities, including those in our supply chains and broader value chains.
Minderoo successfully advocated for Australia’s 2018 Modern Slavery Act, which requires certain organisations and businesses to publish a Modern Slavery Statement. We hope this will lead to greater supply chain transparency, better business practices and play a role in ending modern slavery.
Assessing and addressing the risk of modern slavery in our own supply chains is an absolute priority for Minderoo. In doing so, Minderoo draws directly on the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the ILO Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work.
The Minderoo Foundation Code of Conduct is a set of guiding principles aligned to our Values and culture, and is a way we put our Values into practice. Our Code provides advice and guidance on how to conduct business ethically and in accordance with all applicable laws, regulations and policies.
Our Values of Empowerment and Courage and Determination mean we can all speak up if we think something isn’t right or needs a second opinion.
The Code applies to all those who contribute to the goals of the organisation, including employees, contractors, consultants, board members, volunteers, and temporary or casual workers to ensure the highest possible standards of respectful and ethical business conduct.
The science is clear that human-induced climate change is real. Minderoo Foundation accepts the scientific assessment of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).