Embattled Newcastle real estate mogul Anthony Di Nardo is no longer confined to house arrest after a Newcastle Local Court decision to ease his bail conditions. The decision, made on Monday, comes as Di Nardo faces serious charges of sexual and indecent assault involving five former female employees over a 16-year period.
The court heard arguments that the stringent bail conditions, which had confined Di Nardo to his home at The Junction unless accompanied by his partner or father, were excessive given the nature of the charges. “Section 20A of the Bail Act dictates when conditions should be put on bail, and those conditions have got to be proportionate, reasonable and necessary to address a risk,” said Di Nardo’s defense lawyer, Drew Hamilton.
Legal Arguments and Court Decision
Mr. Hamilton argued that the conditions were not only disproportionate but also hindered Di Nardo’s ability to manage his business and attend necessary appointments. He highlighted the ongoing public scrutiny that had made Di Nardo “quite simply the most visible person in Newcastle in recent weeks.”
Despite police opposition, which cited the need to prevent Di Nardo from contacting witnesses, Magistrate Robyn Richardson ruled that the existing conditions were more onerous than necessary. The revised bail terms now allow Di Nardo to leave his home without accompaniment and remain on licensed premises until 11 p.m.
Background and Allegations
Di Nardo, 53, was arrested on December 9 following an investigation by Strike Force Agnes, which was established in March 2025 after reports of alleged indecent assault. The investigation uncovered multiple incidents of a sexual nature reportedly occurring between 2005 and 2022. Belle Property severed ties with Di Nardo on November 28, prior to his arrest.
Di Nardo has yet to enter pleas on charges that include sexual intercourse without consent, sexually touching without consent, indecent assault, and stalking. The court was informed that Di Nardo is taking care to avoid any actions that might compromise his upcoming trial.
Conditions and Future Proceedings
Under the revised bail conditions, Di Nardo is prohibited from contacting or attempting to contact any prosecution witnesses, except through legal representation. He is also barred from approaching staff at LJ Hooker Warners Bay, McGrath Lake Macquarie, or Belle Property without legal mediation. Additionally, Di Nardo must abstain from alcohol and non-prescribed drugs, maintain good behavior, surrender his passports, and report to police twice weekly.
The case is set to return to Newcastle Local Court on February 11. As the legal proceedings continue, the implications of the case extend beyond the courtroom, affecting the local real estate community and raising questions about workplace conduct and accountability.
Implications and Community Response
The decision to modify Di Nardo’s bail conditions has sparked discussions within the Newcastle community about the balance between ensuring justice and respecting the rights of the accused. The case underscores the complexities involved in high-profile legal battles, particularly those involving allegations of sexual misconduct in professional settings.
As the case progresses, it will likely continue to draw significant public and media attention, reflecting broader societal concerns about power dynamics and the protection of individuals in the workplace.
The outcome of Di Nardo’s trial could have lasting impacts on both his personal and professional life, as well as on the policies and practices within the real estate industry. Observers will be watching closely as the legal process unfolds, with potential implications for similar cases in the future.
