In today’s biography insight, we are going over Betty Klimenko net worth. When you hear the name Betty Klimenko, you probably think of fast cars, racing tracks, and success. But there’s more to her story than just motorsport.
Betty’s life is a mix of struggles, strength, and great achievements. From being born in a police cell to becoming one of Australia’s richest women, her story feels like something out of a movie.
She’s now known as the powerful woman behind Erebus Motorsport, a racing team that has made waves in Australian motorsport. But how did she go from such a rough start to becoming a billionaire? Well, let’s talk about that.
About Betty Klimenko
Betty Klimenko was born in 1959 in Sydney, Australia. Her early life wasn’t what you’d expect from someone with so much wealth today. In fact, she was born under very difficult conditions.
Betty Klimenko biological mother was struggling with drugs, and Betty was actually born in a police cell. Sadly, her parents couldn’t take care of her, and she was abandoned when she was just a few weeks old.
But life had a plan for her. She was later adopted by John Saunders and his wife Eta. John Saunders was not just anyone, he was one of the co-founders of the Westfield Group, a company that became famous for its shopping centers around the world. Being adopted by the Saunders family completely changed Betty’s life. She grew up in a home filled with opportunities, even though she had to go through many personal battles along the way.
As a child, Betty had a wild and curious spirit. She didn’t always follow rules, and she was known for speaking her mind. She started working at an early age, cleaning shops and helping around. Despite being adopted into a rich family, she didn’t always rely on money. Betty wanted to make her own way and earn respect on her own terms. That strong personality became a big part of who she is today.
Betty Klimenko Net Worth
Now, let’s talk about money because that’s probably what you’re curious about. Betty Klimenko is very wealthy. As of 2025, her net worth is estimated to be around 3.10 billion Australian dollars. Most of her wealth comes from her family’s business empire, which includes real estate and investments from the Westfield Group.
Even though she inherited a large part of her fortune, Betty also made her own mark through her investments and her racing team, Erebus Motorsport. In 2017, she made history by becoming the first female team owner to win the Bathurst 1000, one of Australia’s most famous car races.
Betty Klimenko Health
Betty has always been open about her health challenges. She revealed that she has been living with cancer for over 12 years. It hasn’t been an easy road for her, but she continues to face it with strength and hope. Some days are tougher than others, but Betty never lets her illness stop her from doing what she loves.
She’s often said that her health has taught her to appreciate life more deeply. It’s also made her more determined to enjoy every moment, whether it’s spending time on her farm, working with her team, or attending races.
Betty Klimenko Father
Betty’s life took a major turn because of her adoptive father, John Saunders. He was a successful businessman and one of the founders of Westfield, a company that built shopping centers all over Australia and beyond. He was originally from Hungary and was also a survivor of the Holocaust.
John and his wife Eta adopted Betty when she was very young. They gave her a better life, full of opportunities and love. But like most families, they had their ups and downs. When Betty decided to marry a man outside their religion, John was not happy and stopped supporting her financially.
Betty Klimenko Farm
When Betty isn’t busy with racing, she spends time at her farm in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales. The farm is her peaceful escape from the busy world of motorsport and business.
On her farm, she lives with her husband, several dogs, and even camels. Yes, camels. She loves animals and enjoys being surrounded by them. The farm is also where she spends quiet moments to relax and recharge.
Betty Klimenko Husband
Betty is married to Daniel Klimenko, a man who shares her love for motorsport. Their story is quite interesting. When they met, Daniel was only 19 years old, and Betty was older than him. They got married in Las Vegas.
Betty also has children, one with Daniel and two from her previous marriage.
Betty Klimenko Age
Betty was born in 1959, which makes her around 66 years old in 2025. Despite her age, she still carries the same fire and energy she’s had for years.
Betty Klimenko Wealth
When it comes to wealth, Betty’s story is quite impressive. Her net worth is estimated to be around 3.10 billion Australian dollars, but that number doesn’t fully describe her achievements.
Her wealth mainly comes from her adoptive family’s business empire, built by her father John Saunders. The family business includes Terrace Tower Holdings and other property developments linked to the old Westfield empire.
Daniel Klimenko
Daniel Klimenko, Betty’s husband, is more than just her partner, he’s also her biggest supporter. Born and raised in Sydney, Daniel has always been passionate about sports. He played rugby when he was younger, and his family had connections to horse racing.
Interestingly, Daniel’s great-uncle was Jim Pike, the famous jockey who rode the legendary horse Phar Lap. That connection to racing seems to run in the family.
Daniel prefers to stay behind the scenes, but he plays an important role in helping Betty manage Erebus Motorsport.
FAQs
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Conclusion
Betty Klimenko’s life is an amazing example of how someone can rise above tough beginnings to build a life full of success, passion, and meaning. From being born in a police cell to owning a racing team and becoming one of Australia’s richest women, her story is full of lessons about courage and perseverance.
She’s not just a billionaire, she’s a woman who has faced life with strength and kindness. She’s battled health challenges, built a strong marriage, and left a huge mark on motorsport. Betty’s story reminds us that it doesn’t
matter how you start in life, it’s what you do with your chances that counts.
