Betty Klimenko, the powerhouse businesswoman and motorsport enthusiast, continues to make waves in 2025 — both in boardrooms and on racetracks. As of May 2025, the Australian Financial Review estimated her net worth at A$3.10 billion, shared with her half-sister Monica Saunders-Weinberg and their family. This impressive fortune secures Klimenko’s place among Australia’s wealthiest women and underscores her dual legacy as a pioneering entrepreneur and one of the most influential figures in Supercars racing.
The Heiress with Grit
Born into immense wealth, Betty Klimenko is the adopted daughter of John Saunders, one of the co-founders of the Westfield Group, the global shopping centre empire. But despite her privileged background, Klimenko has always forged her own path. Known for her no-nonsense attitude, vibrant personality, and love for motorsport, she has earned respect for being refreshingly unpretentious and grounded.
Her rise to prominence wasn’t about inheriting money — it was about passion, resilience, and taking risks. Betty became a household name when she made history as the first female team owner to win the Bathurst 1000 in 2017, cementing her place in the record books of Australian motorsport.
Earning Her Fortune
While her wealth is tied to the Saunders family’s multibillion-dollar business empire, Betty’s personal ventures have also contributed to her financial standing. She is best known as the owner of Erebus Motorsport, a Supercars Championship team that has grown into one of Australia’s top racing outfits under her leadership.
Klimenko’s management of Erebus reflects her business acumen — a mix of bold decision-making, deep respect for her crew, and a relentless drive to compete at the highest level. Beyond motorsport, her family investments span real estate, retail, and private equity, which continue to generate significant returns.
The Billionaire with a Big Heart
Despite her billionaire status, Betty Klimenko is known for her humility and philanthropy. She actively supports charitable causes, particularly those focused on mental health, animal welfare, and women’s empowerment. Her candidness about her unconventional upbringing and struggles has made her a relatable figure, admired not just for her fortune but for her authenticity.
In interviews, she often emphasizes that money doesn’t define her success — passion does. As she once said, “I don’t fit the mold of a billionaire. I’m just me — tattoos, jeans, and a love for fast cars.”
