Scott Farquhar, born in December 1979, is an Australian entrepreneur renowned for co-founding the software company Atlassian. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming a tech billionaire is a testament to his innovative spirit and entrepreneurial acumen.
Early Life and Education
- Farquhar’s early interest in computers was nurtured by his father, who bought him an old computer.
- He attended Castle Hill Primary School and James Ruse Agricultural High School before graduating with a Bachelor of Science (BIT) from the University of New South Wales.
Founding Atlassian
- In 2002, Farquhar and Mike Cannon-Brookes co-founded Atlassian, bootstrapping the company with a $10,000 credit card debt.
- Their initial product, Jira, a project-tracking software, gained traction due to their focus on building a quality product and avoiding traditional sales expenses.
- Over the years, Atlassian expanded its product offerings and established a global presence.
Achievements and Recognition
- Farquhar and Cannon-Brookes were named Australian Entrepreneur of the Year in 2006.
- Atlassian went public in 2015, making Farquhar and Cannon-Brookes Australia’s first tech startup billionaires.
- Farquhar has been recognized for his philanthropic efforts and commitment to mentoring young entrepreneurs.
Beyond Atlassian
- Farquhar is a significant investor in tech startups through his privately held investment fund, Skip Capital.
- He actively participates in mentoring programs and gives guest lectures at universities.
- Farquhar is a member of the Technology Council of Australia and co-founded Pledge 1%, a movement promoting corporate philanthropy.
Personal Life
- Farquhar is married to Kim Jackson and has three sons.
- He is known for his passion for technology, philanthropy, and family.
In conclusion, Scott Farquhar’s entrepreneurial journey, marked by the success of Atlassian, has significantly impacted the Australian tech industry. His contributions to innovation, mentorship, and philanthropy continue to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide.
