G erry Harvey is a high-profile and often outspoken Australian self-made billionaire. He is the co-founder and executive chairman of Harvey Norman, a major Australian retail chain that sells furniture, bedding, computers, and electrical goods. He started his career selling vacuum cleaners door-to-door before opening his first store with his business partner, Ian Norman.

They built their first successful retail chain, Norman Ross, which they later sold. After a falling out with the new owners, they co-founded Harvey Norman in 1982. The company, which operates on a unique franchise model, has grown into a massive retail empire with hundreds of stores across Australia, New Zealand, and other countries. In addition to his retail empire, Harvey is one of the largest and most passionate owner-breeders of thoroughbred racehorses in Australia, owning the major horse sales company, Magic Millions. He is a prominent and often controversial public figure in Australian business.