Premier thanks Andrew and Nicola Forrest for remarkable gesture

• Premier Mark McGowan welcomes extraordinary $400 million donation from Andrew and Nicola Forrest

Premier Mark McGowan has welcomed the $400 million donation by Andrew and Nicola Forrest and congratulated Mr and Mrs Forrest on their commitment to philanthropy in Australia.

The donation is the largest ever made in Australia and will go towards important community causes and supporting some of the most disadvantaged people in Australia and the world.

Many sections of the Western Australian community will benefit from the gesture.

Funding will be directed towards areas such as cancer research, education, support for vulnerable and disadvantaged children, working to end disparity between indigenous and non-indigenous Australians and community organisations.

Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan:

"I commend Mr and Mrs Forrest for this extraordinary donation, an incredible display of support for some of the most important causes in our community.

"This funding will provide a huge boost to sections of the community who need it most and shows a willingness to address global issues such as cancer and slavery.

"Mr and Mrs Forrest have shown themselves to be leaders in philanthropy in Australia and I hope their generous act will encourage other business leaders to increase their philanthropic efforts.

"On behalf of all Western Australians, I pass on my thanks and gratitude to them for their remarkable gesture."

Premier's office - 6552 5000