Harry Triguboff is a name synonymous with high‑rise living in Australia. As the founder and Managing Director of Meriton, Australia’s largest residential property developer, Triguboff has transformed skylines and reshaped how Australians live, working, and play. His journey from a young immigrant to one of the country’s wealthiest individuals is a story of resilience, ambition, and foresight.
Early Life: A Journey from China to Australia
Born on March 3, 1933, in Dalian, China, Harry Triguboff came from a Jewish family with roots in Russia. His parents, Moshe and Frida, were part of the Jewish community in China, where they found refuge from the turmoil of Eastern Europe. During the early years of his life, Triguboff lived through the tumult of World War II and the shifting political landscapes of China.
In 1948, his family decided to immigrate to Australia, seeking better opportunities. This move was pivotal in Triguboff’s life and career. It was in Australia that he would eventually find success, but it wasn’t without hardship. As a young immigrant, he faced the challenge of adjusting to a new culture, language, and society. But his determination, combined with his background in education from the University of Leeds in the UK, shaped his future endeavors.
Building Meriton: The Rise of High‑Rise Apartments
Triguboff’s first foray into real estate came after a series of ventures in other industries, including the taxi business and milk delivery. However, it was his entry into construction that would define his legacy. In 1963, at the age of 30, he founded Meriton Apartments, marking the beginning of an incredible career.
Meriton’s first building project, located in Tempe, Sydney, consisted of just eight apartments. But Triguboff saw beyond small-scale developments; he had a vision for high-density urban living that was ahead of its time. As the decades passed, Meriton evolved from a small construction company to Australia’s largest residential developer. Triguboff’s focus was always on building high‑rise apartments to accommodate Australia’s growing population. He understood that vertical living was the key to addressing the housing challenges of an increasingly urbanized nation.
Today, Meriton is known for its high-rise apartments that dominate the Sydney skyline and beyond. With over 79,000 apartments built across Australia, including developments in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, Meriton has become a household name, known for quality living spaces that range from budget-friendly units to luxury penthouses. His iconic World Tower, standing tall in the heart of Sydney, remains one of the tallest residential buildings in the country.
A Billionaire Visionary: Harry Triguboff Net Worth and Business Acumen
Harry Triguboff’s business success has propelled him to the top of Australia’s wealth rankings. As of 2025, his net worth is estimated to be around AU$29.65 billion, making him one of the richest people in the country. His wealth primarily stems from his stake in Meriton, but Triguboff’s portfolio extends beyond real estate into various other investments, including technology, infrastructure, and hospitality. His sharp business acumen and long-term strategic planning have helped him navigate economic cycles and emerge stronger, even during downturns.
While many attribute his fortune to the booming property market, Triguboff’s ability to anticipate market trends and adapt his business accordingly has been key to his ongoing success. His company’s shift towards serviced apartments with Meriton Suites, located in prime areas like the Gold Coast, reflects his ability to innovate and meet evolving consumer demands.
Personal Life: Family and Philanthropy
Triguboff’s personal life is as fascinating as his professional one. A devoted family man, Triguboff has been married twice. His first marriage to Hana produced two daughters, Orna and Sharon, who have kept a relatively low profile, with Orna pursuing a career in wellness and spirituality.
His second marriage to Rhonda, an accountant who played a key role in Meriton’s operations, ended with Rhonda’s tragic passing in September 2024. Despite his personal loss, Triguboff remains focused on the company’s future and his family’s legacy.
In addition to his business ventures, Triguboff is deeply involved in philanthropy. Through the Harry Triguboff Foundation, he has supported various charitable causes, particularly those that assist Jewish immigrants in proving their identity. His passion for the Jewish community and Israel has been an integral part of his personal and professional ethos. He has also funded educational projects and initiatives in Israel, further solidifying his commitment to Jewish causes.
Harry Triguboff Views on Housing and the Future
Triguboff’s impact on the Australian housing landscape cannot be overstated. He has long been a vocal advocate for higher-density living, particularly in cities like Sydney where housing demand is high, and space is limited. He often points out that vertical living is the solution to Australia’s growing housing crisis, advocating for more skyscrapers and fewer detached homes. His approach has garnered both admiration and criticism. Supporters praise him for solving housing shortages, while detractors argue that high-rise buildings can lead to overcrowding and a loss of community.
Triguboff has also been a staunch advocate for planning reforms that allow for easier development of high‑rise projects. He believes that Australia’s urban planning laws need to evolve to meet the needs of the growing population. His commitment to affordable housing is reflected in Meriton’s diverse range of apartments, from entry-level to high-end luxury residences.
In recent years, Triguboff has shown interest in Bitcoin and other innovative technologies. While his core business remains real estate, he is open to exploring emerging opportunities, seeing them as a way to secure future growth and expand his empire.
Harry Triguboff Influence Beyond Property
Beyond his empire of apartments, Triguboff has influenced the broader business landscape. He has mentored aspiring entrepreneurs, sharing his knowledge and experience through programs like “Win a Week with a Billionaire.” His story is a testament to the power of vision, determination, and hard work. His rise from a young immigrant with limited resources to a billionaire developer has inspired countless Australians, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds.
His legacy, however, is not just measured by his wealth but by the influence he has had on the cities he helped shape. Triguboff’s high-rise buildings dot the skylines of Sydney, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast, contributing to Australia’s urban landscape in a way few others have.
Where Does Harry Triguboff Live?
While Harry Triguboff is known for his vast portfolio of properties, he resides in a luxury penthouse in Sydney, a city he has called home since arriving in Australia as a teenager. His home, like his business empire, reflects his taste for high-end living and his commitment to quality.
Harry Triguboff Future and Succession Plans
At the age of 92, Triguboff is contemplating the future of his empire. He has already started transitioning leadership at Meriton to the next generation. His grandson, Daniel Hendler, has taken on senior roles within the company, signaling the beginning of a new chapter for both Triguboff and Meriton.
Despite his advanced age, Triguboff remains active in overseeing his empire, ensuring that Meriton continues to thrive even after he steps down. The company’s future appears secure, with plans for further expansion into new markets and continued development of high‑rise properties.
Harry Triguboff: A Man Who Built More Than Buildings
Harry Triguboff’s story is one of extraordinary achievement, but it is also one of passion, vision, and a desire to leave a lasting legacy. His life’s work has shaped the Australian property market and has had a profound impact on urban development. As Australia’s largest residential developer, Triguboff’s influence will continue to be felt for generations to come. Whether it’s the buildings he’s created or the opportunities he’s provided, Triguboff has built more than just apartments — he has built a future for urban Australia.
Conclusion
Harry Triguboff’s journey from a young immigrant to Australia’s wealthiest property mogul is a remarkable testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and resilience. As the founder of Meriton, he has not only revolutionized the Australian real estate landscape but has also played a significant role in shaping how Australians live. Triguboff’s legacy is built on the foundations of high-rise apartments that offer solutions to urban housing challenges, as well as his commitment to providing quality homes for people from all walks of life.
His success story is a source of inspiration, showing that with vision, determination, and strategic risk-taking, one can overcome obstacles and build a lasting legacy. From his early days as an immigrant to his current status as a billionaire, Triguboff’s influence continues to be felt, and his impact on the Australian skyline and housing market will resonate for generations to come. Whether it’s his ongoing work in real estate, his philanthropic efforts, or the transition of leadership to the next generation, Harry Triguboff’s name will forever be linked to the rise of urban Australia.
As the founder of Meriton, his entrepreneurial drive and passion for development have laid the groundwork for future growth and innovation in the property sector. With the next generation of his family taking charge, Triguboff’s empire is poised to continue thriving, ensuring that his legacy endures for years to come.