A major data breach has compromised the personal information of employees and associates connected to Clive Palmer’s business and political ventures. The breach, discovered on June 23, 2025, resulted from a ransomware attack affecting 11 entities, including Mineralogy and Queensland Nickel Group. The attack has potentially exposed sensitive data such as email addresses, phone numbers, identity records, banking details, employment history, and confidential documents.
Cybersecurity expert Professor Nigel Phair from Monash University raised concerns about the breach, highlighting that those affected might not fully understand the extent of the data compromise. He pointed out the difficulties in controlling the spread of personal information once it is leaked.
In response, the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner and the Australian Signals Directorate have been informed. Although the Australian Federal Police have not been formally notified, there is a growing call for stricter cybersecurity regulations and harsher penalties for organizations that fail to protect personal data adequately.