The Block's recent acquisition of a Victorian government property for a mere $38 per square metre has ignited a firestorm of controversy, with neighbours and MPs demanding answers. The historic Sunbury site, formerly a psychiatric hospital, was sold to Channel Nine for $1 million – the cheapest purchase in the reality show's history.
The Block's Bargain Purchase: Details of the Sunbury Property Deal
The 2.6-hectare (6.4-acre) site, located about 30km northwest of Melbourne's CBD, was sold by the Victorian government to Channel Nine for $1 million. This translates to just $38 per square metre, a price that local real estate agent Trent Mason from Leading Real Estate described as "eyebrow-raising." Three of the site's buildings will reportedly be converted into five homes by The Block's contestants.
Find Original, High-end Home Decor that spark conversation at Grand Goldman Shop.
Community and Political Backlash
Community groups and MPs are up in arms over the sale price, questioning why such a valuable asset was sold so cheaply. Mason noted that while the show's presence in Sunbury "will bring a lot of positivity and growth" to the area, "the price and how it's all been handled, well, that's the bit with a question mark over it." He added that based on comparative sales, the land would be valued much higher than the selling price.
Property Value Comparison
To put the sale price into perspective, consider recent sales in the area. Mason sold a 2,020 sq metre property for about $890,000 in 2024, despite it being nearly 10% of the size of the site bought for The Block. A 2,880 sq metre property recently sold for $3 million in Sunbury. These figures highlight the significant disparity between the sale price and market value.
| Property | Size (sqm) | Sale Price | Price per sqm |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Block Site | 26,000 | $1,000,000 | $38 |
| Comparative Sale 1 | 2,020 | $890,000 | $441 |
| Comparative Sale 2 | 2,880 | $3,000,000 | $1,042 |
Key Takeaways from the Controversy
- The Block purchased a 2.6-hectare Victorian government property for $1 million, or $38 per square metre.
- The sale price is significantly lower than comparable properties in the area.
- Community groups and MPs are demanding answers from the Victorian government.
- The property, a former psychiatric hospital, is heritage-listed and deteriorated.
- The show's presence is expected to bring positivity and growth to Sunbury.
FAQ
Why is the sale of the Sunbury property controversial?
The sale is controversial because the property was sold for $38 per square metre, far below market value, leading to questions about the government's decision-making process.
What will happen to the Sunbury property?
Three buildings on the site will be converted into five homes by contestants on The Block.
How does the sale price compare to other properties in Sunbury?
Comparable sales show prices ranging from $441 to $1,042 per square metre, making the $38 per square metre sale price significantly lower.
The controversy surrounding The Block's purchase of the Sunbury property continues to escalate, with calls for transparency from the Victorian government. As the story develops, many are left wondering how such a deal was allowed to proceed.
Browse the Shop
Acacia frida deluxe solid wood bed frame |
Bedroom bench |
Bed chest drawers |
Lingerie dresser |
Frame base |
Mirror with jewelry storage |
30 Bathroom Vanity |
Memory foam queen mattress |
Mattresses for back pain |
Nightstand set of 2 |
Grand Goldman Shop |
Civil Lawyer
Deutschland Trikot WM 2026
