Anthony Di Nardo, a prominent real estate figure in Newcastle, has been released from house arrest following a decision by the Newcastle Local Court to vary his bail conditions. This development comes after Di Nardo was charged with multiple counts of sexual and indecent assault involving five former female employees of Belle Property over a 16-year span.
The court’s decision on Monday marked a significant shift in Di Nardo’s legal journey, which began with his arrest on December 9. Previously, Di Nardo was confined to his home in The Junction, only allowed to leave under the supervision of his partner or father. Defense lawyer Drew Hamilton argued that these conditions were excessive given the nature of the charges.
Legal Arguments and Court Decision
During the court proceedings, Hamilton highlighted that the bail conditions imposed on Di Nardo were not in line with the principles outlined in Section 20A of the Bail Act, which requires conditions to be proportionate, reasonable, and necessary to mitigate risk.
“This is going to be a defended trial. Mr. Di Nardo would be under house arrest for two years, which is grossly disproportionate to the charges that are before the court,” Hamilton stated.
Magistrate Robyn Richardson concurred with the defense, noting that the existing conditions were more onerous than necessary. Consequently, the curfew was lifted, allowing Di Nardo to remain on licensed premises until 11 pm. However, certain restrictions remain, including a prohibition on contacting prosecution witnesses and a requirement to report to police twice weekly.
Background and Allegations
The allegations against Di Nardo surfaced after a report of an alleged indecent assault led to the establishment of Strike Force Agnes by Newcastle City Police District in March 2025. Investigations reportedly uncovered several incidents of a sexual nature occurring between 2005 and 2022.
Belle Property severed ties with Di Nardo on November 28, prior to his arrest. The charges he faces include sexual intercourse without consent, sexually touching without consent, indecent assault, and stalking. Di Nardo has yet to enter a plea for these charges.
Community and Business Impact
Di Nardo’s legal troubles have cast a spotlight on the Newcastle real estate community. Hamilton described a “campaign” against his client, making him “quite simply the most visible person in Newcastle in recent weeks.” The bail conditions previously hindered Di Nardo’s ability to manage his business affairs, attend legal consultations, and maintain medical appointments.
“He is still a business person. The curfew has made it difficult for him to attend various meetings,” Hamilton emphasized.
Future Legal Proceedings
Despite the bail variation, police expressed concerns about the potential risk of Di Nardo approaching witnesses. However, Magistrate Richardson determined that the revised conditions adequately addressed these concerns while allowing Di Nardo some degree of personal freedom.
The matter is set to return to Newcastle Local Court on February 11, where further legal proceedings will unfold. As the case progresses, it will undoubtedly continue to draw public and media attention, given its implications for both Di Nardo’s personal and professional life.
As the legal process moves forward, the case highlights ongoing discussions about the balance between ensuring justice and respecting the rights of the accused. The outcome of Di Nardo’s trial could have lasting effects on the Newcastle community and the broader real estate industry.
