Introduction
Gretel Lees Packer AM, born in August 1965, is an Australian billionaire, investor, and philanthropist. As a member of the influential Packer family, Gretel has carved her path as a successful businesswoman and a leading force in philanthropic endeavors across the arts, education, and environmental science.
Family Legacy
Gretel is the daughter of media mogul Kerry Packer AC and Roslyn Packer AC, and the granddaughter of Sir Frank Packer, the founder of Australian Consolidated Press. Raised in one of Australia’s most prominent families, Gretel inherited substantial wealth and investments, including stakes in Crown Resorts and other businesses, following a reported A$1.2 billion settlement with her brother, James Packer, in 2015.
Business Career and Investments
Building on her family’s legacy, Gretel has established herself as a formidable businesswoman. Her investments span industries, and she has held significant roles in companies associated with the Packer family, including Crown Resorts and Consolidated Press Holdings.
Philanthropic Leadership
Gretel Packer is a passionate advocate for the arts, education, and environmental sustainability. Her leadership roles in philanthropy include:
- Vice-President, Board of Trustees of the Art Gallery of New South Wales
- Chair, Advisory Board of Crown Resorts Foundation
- Chair, Packer Family Foundation
- Chair, Sydney Theatre Company Foundation
- Founding Patron, Taronga Zoo Conservation Science Initiative
- Founding Governor, Taronga Zoo Foundation
Her past contributions include serving as a Director of the Royal Hospital for Women Foundation and as a Council Member of the Royal Botanic Gardens Foundation.
Achievements and Honors
Gretel’s philanthropic impact has been widely recognized. She was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2014 for her services to the community. She was also named among the “100 Most Influential Women in Australia” by The Australian Financial Review in 2015.
Net Worth
As of May 2023, Gretel Packer’s net worth was estimated at A$2.09 billion by the Financial Review Rich List. In January 2019, Forbes Asia assessed her wealth at US$1.6 billion, underscoring her status as one of Australia’s wealthiest individuals.
Personal Life
Gretel has been married twice. She shares two children with her first husband, Nick Barham, and one child with her second husband, Shane Murray. Both marriages ended in divorce, and she is currently single.
Passion for the Arts and Conservation
An avid art collector, Gretel owns over 1,000 works, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs. Her love for the arts is reflected in her long-standing patronage of the Sydney Theatre Company and her conservation efforts through the Taronga Zoo.
Legacy
Gretel Packer exemplifies the blend of business acumen and philanthropic dedication. Her contributions to society, particularly in advancing the arts, environmental conservation, and community well-being, cement her as a leader who leverages wealth to create a meaningful and lasting impact.
