John Van Lieshout (born 1946) is an Australian billionaire entrepreneur and property investor, best known as the founder of Super A-Mart, one of Australia’s largest furniture retail chains. After selling the business in 2006, he transitioned into property development, amassing a vast real estate portfolio through Unison Projects Group.

Early Life and Background

John Van Lieshout was born in 1946 in the Netherlands. He was one of 13 children born to Karel Van Lieshout, a plasterer, and his wife, Anna Van Lieshout. In 1960, at the age of 14, John and his family emigrated to Australia, seeking better opportunities. They initially arrived at Brisbane’s Wacol Migrant Camp, a processing center for new immigrants.

Van Lieshout completed his high school diploma, after which he ventured into the workforce, eventually building a business empire that would make him one of Australia’s wealthiest individuals.

Business Career

Founder of Super A-Mart

John Van Lieshout established Super A-Mart in 1970, creating a discount furniture and bedding retail chain that grew into one of Australia’s largest furniture businesses. Known for its affordable pricing and large-format stores, Super A-Mart expanded rapidly, becoming a dominant player in the furniture retail market.

Sale of Super A-Mart & Transition to Property

In 2006, after nearly four decades in the furniture business, Van Lieshout sold Super A-Mart for A$500 million. However, he retained ownership of some of the store freeholds, ensuring a continued income stream from rental revenues.

Following the sale, he pivoted into property development and investment, leveraging his wealth to acquire commercial, industrial, and residential assets.

Unison Projects Group

Van Lieshout founded Unison Projects Group, a real estate investment and development company focusing on residential, industrial, and commercial properties. Through this venture, he has amassed a portfolio that includes:

• 600 housing blocks and 200 townhouses in Brisbane
• Shopping malls, commercial offices, and industrial properties

His strategic investments in Brisbane and beyond have further solidified his status as one of Australia’s most successful property magnates.

The Van Lieshout Family Legacy

John Van Lieshout is part of a highly entrepreneurial family, often referred to as “the kings and queens of furniture” in Australia. Several members of the Van Lieshout family have founded successful retail and furniture businesses, including:

• Empire Office Furniture
• BW Coles
• Chevron
• The Woolstore

The family’s success in the retail and property sectors has made them one of Australia’s wealthiest business dynasties.

Personal Life

John Van Lieshout is married with three children and resides in Brisbane, Queensland. Despite his immense wealth, he maintains a relatively private and low-profile lifestyle.

Wealth and Influence

Van Lieshout’s net worth is primarily derived from his extensive property holdings, including shopping malls, industrial complexes, and residential estates. His shift from retail to real estate has allowed him to continue growing his wealth and remain an influential figure in Australia’s business and investment landscape.

With decades of experience in retail, real estate, and business strategy, John Van Lieshout remains a powerful figure in Australia’s economic landscape, with a legacy spanning both furniture retailing and property development.