Forrest the sole Aussie on prestigious Time list
Mining magnate and green energy champion Andrew “Twiggy” Forrest is the sole Australian on Time magazine’s list of 100 most influential people of 2025.
The billionaire Fortescue Metals Group chairman won kudos for transforming one of the world’s biggest mining companies into a “clean-energy powerhouse” and for his philanthropy.
Forrest is pushing to end the use of fossil fuels globally by 2040 and was described as “one of the world’s great industrialists” in a blurb by International Energy Agency executive director Fatih Birol.
“With his determination to show cutting emissions and profit can go hand in hand, Andrew is the kind of pioneering business leader the world needs today,” the description said.
“He’s also been among the world’s most generous philanthropists since before it was in vogue, reflecting his passion for helping people and planet.”
The Minderoo Foundation, which Forrest founded with his ex-wife Nicola, is also one of the region’s biggest philanthropic bodies, funding humanitarian aid, projects focused on Indigenous Australians, gender equality and the environment.
The list, unveiled on Thursday (Australian time) was dominated by US President Donald Trump, his inner circle and cabinet ministers, including Vice President JD Vance and billionaire tech founder Elon Musk.
Titans of the sport and entertainment worlds also featured, including singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran, actor Demi Moore, tennis champion Serena Williams and the world’s most decorated gymnast Simone Biles.
Stay informed, daily
“Wow, I’m beyond honoured and honestly a bit shocked to be named one of Time‘s 100 Most Influential People!” Williams, who has also made the list previously, posted on X.
“I truly love what I do and everything I’ve accomplished. Now, I’m excited to use my business to create a meaningful impact. Let’s keep making a difference.”
French rape survivor and Gisele Pelicot, who was drugged by her husband and attacked by dozens of men, was celebrated as a global symbol of strength and survival.
Meta chief executive Mark Zuckerberg was lauded for his leadership on artificial intelligence, while British Prime Minister Kier Starmer was commended for his support for Ukraine.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and pop icon Kylie Minogue dropped off the list after making it in previous years.
