Atlassian Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer Mike Cannon-Brookes and his wife Annie Cannon-Brookes will invest $1.5 billion of their personal wealth to financial and philanthropic ventures aimed at fighting climate change, the couple has announced. The hefty sum will include $1 billion in financial investments and $500 million in philanthropic and advocacy work toward the goal of limiting carbon emissions and accelerating global decarbonization. This latest pledge is in addition to the $1 billion the couple has already invested in climate change initiatives and organizations.
Atlassian has elevated Cannon-Brookes to the top levels of Australia’s Financial Review Rich List with its software offerings Jira, Confluence, and more. Cannon-Brookes is notorious for his criticism of Australia’s obstinate approach to climate change policies, so it is not unexpected that he would attempt to lead other billionaires by example. He sees not only the desperate need for drastic change; he also sees plenty of economic opportunity for Australians and the whole world. Seeking to raise collective ambition and press urgency for action at home and abroad, he’s willing to wager a portion of his $20 billion net worth to amplify his voice for this cause.
