SafeWork NSW is investigating allegations of harassment and unsafe workplace conditions linked to the business network of Newcastle real estate executive Anthony Di Nardo. Multiple current and former employees have come forward with serious claims, including incidents of sexual assault, harassment, and illegal drug use within the Belle Property franchises in the Hunter region.
An ongoing investigation by the Newcastle Herald has revealed that over ten female employees have reported experiences of groping, inappropriate comments, and sexual assault. Among the allegations, a 17-year-old girl has filed a Workers Compensation claim, asserting that she was subjected to grooming and harassment by Di Nardo. Additional claims involve Di Nardo allegedly sharing pornographic videos and images of staff members, including footage captured from security cameras.
In response to these allegations, Di Nardo has categorically denied all claims, describing them as “concerning” and “simply untrue.” He stated, “It is an unfortunate reality that sometimes, when employment relationships break down, false and malicious complaints can be made.”
Regulatory Response and Workplace Safety Concerns
On Wednesday, a spokesperson for SafeWork NSW confirmed that the organization is investigating the concerns raised by former and current staff members. “SafeWork NSW is aware of media reports raising workplace sexual harassment allegations involving Belle Property franchises in Newcastle,” the spokesperson stated. The regulator highlighted that psychosocial risks, including sexual harassment, are considered a “high-risk focus area” and are among the five regulatory priorities for the agency.
Under the current New South Wales work health and safety laws, businesses are mandated to manage risks related to psychosocial hazards, ensuring that employees have clear avenues to report health and safety issues. As part of this ongoing inquiry, SafeWork NSW aims to ensure that all allegations are thoroughly investigated and addressed.
In light of the allegations, Belle Property has taken swift action, terminating Di Nardo’s role as both a principal and franchisee. An email from Peter Hanscomb, director of Belle Property’s head office, informed staff that the franchise contract for Di Nardo’s five offices had been revoked. “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 within the Hunter Region offices,” Hanscomb wrote. He emphasized that the well-being of employees is the company’s highest priority.
As the investigation unfolds, the Newcastle Herald reached out to Di Nardo for his comments regarding the termination of his contract. He described the timeline for his response as “completely unreasonable, unfair and unethical,” citing the weekend as a barrier to contacting his legal team. Di Nardo has since indicated that he will provide a response by the evening of Wednesday.
This situation raises significant questions about workplace safety and the measures in place to protect employees from harassment and misconduct, particularly in high-profile business environments like real estate. As SafeWork NSW continues its inquiries, the implications for Di Nardo and the broader Belle Property network remain to be seen.
