The arrest of one of Newcastle’s most successful real estate agents has sent shockwaves through the Hunter Valley property sector. But for many who knew Anthony Di Nardo, the only surprise was that it took this long.
Police led the 53-year-old from his Junction home in handcuffs on Tuesday morning. He faces six serious charges. The allegations span nearly 30 years of his career.
The Arrest That Rocked Newcastle
Officers executed a search warrant at Di Nardo’s residence shortly after 7am on 9th December 2025. Within hours, the former Belle Property franchise owner was charged with multiple sexual offences. He appeared before Newcastle Bail Court the same day.
Anthony Di Nardo was arrested at his Junction home on Tuesday morning
The charges paint a disturbing picture:
- Sexual intercourse without consent
- Two counts of assault with act of indecency
- Stalk and intimidate
- Sexual touching without consent
- Carry out sexual act with another without consent
Police refused bail. Di Nardo remains in custody pending further court proceedings. During the search, officers seized several electronic devices for forensic examination.
Strike Force Agnes: NSW Police established the dedicated taskforce in March 2025 following an initial report. Detectives uncovered alleged incidents occurring between 2005 and 2022 across multiple victims.
A Pattern Stretching Back to the 1990s
Recent investigations revealed allegations dating to Di Nardo’s time as a nightclub bouncer in the 1990s. More than 20 women have now come forward with detailed accounts spanning his entire adult life.
The Newcastle Herald’s investigation prompted Belle Property to terminate Di Nardo’s five-franchise contract on 28th November 2025. His business empire once represented the region’s largest premium real estate operation.
Former colleagues describe a workplace culture where inappropriate behaviour was normalised. Several women reported quitting their positions rather than continuing to work under Di Nardo’s management.
One former employee recalled his conduct from decades ago. “Just reading that article really got me,” she said. “It brought back all those feelings. Even though it was a long time ago, I can remember it so clearly.”
Allegations From Staff, Vendors and Patrons
The misconduct claims extend beyond employees to include:
Property Vendors: A woman alleges Di Nardo indecently assaulted her during a home visit to discuss selling her property more than 10 years ago. She describes him asking if she “wanted to go upstairs” and attempting to kiss her without consent.
Nightclub Patrons: Multiple people remember Di Nardo from his security work at Newcastle venues in the 1990s. One former bouncer colleague stated: “We’re talking 30 years ago, and he was a serial grub back then.”
Seven Women From McGrath Era: Former staff from Di Nardo’s time operating McGrath franchises detailed claims including indecent assault, sharing inappropriate photos of female staff, and alleged drug use in the workplace.
Industry insiders suggest the behaviour was an “open secret” within Newcastle’s real estate community for over a decade. Yet Di Nardo continued to build his empire unchecked.
Rise to Power in Hunter Valley Real Estate
Di Nardo built an impressive career over 24 years. His resume included:
- Ranked number 47 in Real Estate Business magazine’s national top 100 agents for 2025
- Record-breaking AUD 10 million sale in Lake Macquarie (2022)
- Five Belle Property franchises across Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens, East Maitland, Hunter Valley and Newcastle
- Multiple industry awards and accolades
He opened his first Belle Property office in Lake Macquarie in 2018 after rebranding two McGrath franchises. The business expanded rapidly, positioning him as one of the Hunter region’s most influential property figures.
Former staff describe Di Nardo as someone who used his position to “prey” on young women entering the industry. Several said they felt powerless to report incidents due to his influence and connections.
The Youngest Victim: A 16-Year-Old Trainee
One of the most troubling allegations involves a female staff member who began a real estate traineeship at 16. The teenager lodged a workers’ compensation claim in August 2025 alleging grooming and harassment.
According to documents reviewed by media outlets, incidents allegedly occurred while she babysat for Di Nardo outside work hours. She also claimed inappropriate behaviour when asked to help prepare for functions at his home.
A friend of the girl stated: “She had things pressed up against the door because she was scared he was going to come in. It’s a very disturbing thing to put someone through, especially a child.”
Multiple Belle Property staff reportedly quit after learning of the teenager’s situation. They described her as a “vulnerable child” who should have been protected.
Belle Property Severs Ties
Belle Property head office director Peter Hanscomb sent an email to Hunter-based staff on 28th November 2025 announcing the termination of all Di Nardo’s franchise contracts.
“This decision follows information that has recently come to light, raising serious concerns and posing a threat to the safety and security of former and current staff,” Hanscomb wrote. “The well-being of our people is our highest priority, and we have acted swiftly in response.”
The move came after sustained media investigation revealed the extent of allegations. Di Nardo had been recognised as among the highest performers in the Belle network before the termination.
Di Nardo’s Denials Through Legal Counsel
Throughout the unfolding scandal, Di Nardo maintained his innocence through legal representatives. His fiancée, Newcastle-based lawyer Larissa Howard, was photographed leaving their Junction home shortly before his arrest.
In previous statements, Di Nardo described the allegations as “concerning” and “simply untrue.” He suggested false complaints sometimes arise when employment relationships deteriorate.
When contacted about the latest allegations following his arrest, Di Nardo’s response through his lawyer was marked not for publication.
Industry Reckoning and Systemic Questions
The case raises difficult questions about accountability within Australia’s real estate sector. How did alleged misconduct continue for decades without intervention?
Several former employees expressed frustration that complaints appeared to go nowhere. “I think the most important thing we should all be asking is how this was allowed to go on for so long,” one woman said.
The allegations span Di Nardo’s employment at multiple agencies:
- Century 21 Lake Macquarie (sales agent)
- LJ Hooker Warners Bay (franchise owner)
- McGrath Warners Bay (two franchises)
- Belle Property (five franchises)
This suggests multiple organisations may have been aware of concerns without taking decisive action.
Legal Process Ahead
Di Nardo’s case will proceed through the NSW court system. The charges carry significant potential penalties if proven.
The investigation remains active. Police encourage anyone with information to contact Newcastle City Police District or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
The NSW Police Force emphasised that investigations into historical matters can be complex. Strike Force Agnes continues to examine potential additional victims or incidents.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What charges does Anthony Di Nardo face?
A: Anthony Di Nardo faces six charges: sexual intercourse without consent, two counts of assault with act of indecency, stalk and intimidate, sexual touching without consent, and carry out sexual act with another without consent.
Q: When was Anthony Di Nardo arrested?
A: Di Nardo was arrested on Tuesday, 9th December 2025, at his home in The Junction, Newcastle, following an early morning search warrant.
Q: How many alleged victims have come forward?
A: More than 20 women have detailed allegations against Di Nardo, with some claims dating back to the 1990s when he worked as a nightclub bouncer.
Q: What was Di Nardo’s role in real estate?
A: Di Nardo owned five Belle Property franchises across the Hunter region and was ranked among Australia’s top 100 real estate agents before his arrest.
