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Robyn Wuth

Business as usual for rich-list Forrests after split

Andrew and Nicola Forrest say they have decided to live apart after more than 30 years of marriage. (Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS)

Fortescue Metals Group says there will be no change to the running of the mining giant, despite the marriage split between two of its major shareholders.

Andrew and Nicola Forrest, one of Australia's wealthiest couples, have separated after more than three decades of marriage.

However, they say the split will not affect their shared business interests.

The Forrests have confirmed their separation, which they say will not impact their joint philanthropic and corporate ventures.

"After 31 years of marriage, we have made the decision to live apart," the pair said in a statement.

"Our friendship and commitment to our family remains strong.

"There is no impact on the operations, control or direction of Fortescue, Minderoo or Tattarang.

"We will continue our shared mission to create and gift our wealth to tackle community and global challenges."

Dr Forrest is estimated to be the second richest person in the country, behind fellow mining billionaire Gina Rinehart.

In May, the Australian Financial Review Rich List put Dr Forrest's net worth at $33.29 billion.

Most of his wealth comes from his stake in Fortescue, in which he and Ms Forrest hold a more than one-third interest.

In a statement to the Australian stock exchange, Fortescue said there would be no change to the control, direction or major shareholding of the mining company via Tattarang or Dr Forrest's other associated entities.

"Dr Andrew Forrest and Nicola Forrest will be transferring their wealth to charity over their lifetimes," the company said.

In 2013 the Forrests were the first Australians to sign the Giving Pledge - a vow also taken by Warren Buffett, Bill Gates and Elon Musk - to give away most of their fortunes.

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