Early Life and Education
Harry Oskar Triguboff was born on March 3, 1933, in Dalian, Liaoning, Republic of China, to Russian Jewish immigrants Moshe and Frida Triguboff. His father had relocated to China in 1916 to escape antisemitism in the Russian Empire. Triguboff spent his formative years in the Jewish community of Tianjin, where his father established a successful trading business dealing in wool, silk, and leather.
During World War II, the Imperial Japanese Army invaded Tianjin. While the foreign concessions were initially spared, the situation deteriorated after Pearl Harbor in 1941, leading to the internment of British and American residents. Triguboff’s father seized this opportunity to expand his business, opening multiple stores and acquiring properties. However, after the war, he was accused of collaborating with the Japanese, a charge from which he was later acquitted.
In 1946, the Triguboff family secured permission to migrate to Australia, settling in Sydney in 1948 after being refused entry to Canada and the United States. Despite initial challenges due to their father’s wartime reputation, Harry was educated at Scots College in Sydney. He later graduated with a degree in textiles from the University of Leeds, England, and gained experience working in textile businesses in Israel and South Africa before returning to Australia in 1960.
Career Beginnings
Upon returning to Australia, Triguboff became a citizen in 1961 and explored various entrepreneurial ventures, including owning a taxi fleet and a milk round. His real estate career began when he purchased land in Roseville and, frustrated by the unreliable builders he initially hired, completed the construction of his own home. This experience ignited his passion for property development.
In 1963, at the age of 30, he founded Meriton Apartments Pty Ltd, marking the beginning of a remarkable career in residential development.
Real Estate Development
Under Triguboff’s leadership, Meriton grew into Australia’s largest residential property developer, completing over 78,000 residential dwellings. His projects include high-profile developments like the World Tower in Sydney, which is the tallest residential building in the city. Triguboff has focused on high-density living solutions in major Australian cities, particularly Sydney and Brisbane, recognizing the potential for apartment living in a market traditionally dominated by single-family homes.
Meriton has averaged the development of more than 3,000 apartments annually in recent years, significantly contributing to Australia’s housing landscape. Triguboff is a vocal advocate for increasing Australia’s population to 100 million, believing it would enhance economic growth and development.
In September 2023, he expanded Meriton’s portfolio by opening new hotel properties in Canberra, Melbourne, and Liverpool, further solidifying his influence in the real estate sector.
Wealth and Recognition
As of May 2023, Triguboff was ranked as the fourth richest Australian, with a net worth estimated at A$23.80 billion. His wealth has fluctuated over the years; in 2016, he was listed as the richest Australian, with a net worth of A$11.62 billion. He has appeared on every Financial Review Rich List since its inception in 1984, a testament to his enduring success.
Triguboff has received numerous accolades for his contributions to the property industry, including being appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 1990 and an Officer of the Order of Australia in 1999. He has also been recognized as Australia’s Property Person of the Year multiple times.
Personal Life
Harry Triguboff is married to his second wife, Rhonda, and has two daughters from his first marriage, Orna and Sharon. He resides in Sydney and is known for his passion for luxury cars, boasting a collection that includes several Rolls-Royces.
In addition to his business endeavors, Triguboff is actively involved in philanthropy through the Harry Triguboff Foundation, supporting various causes including initiatives for immigrants and community development.
Legacy
Harry Triguboff’s influence in the Australian real estate market is profound, shaping urban landscapes and pioneering the concept of high-density living. His visionary approach has not only redefined residential development in Australia but also positioned him as a significant figure in the country’s economic landscape. Known affectionately as “High-rise Harry,” Triguboff’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and remarkable success in the face of adversity.
