Antony Catalano granted bail change to travel to Byron Bay

Melbourne Magistrates Court varied the bail conditions of media executive Antony Catalano, allowing him to leave Victoria and visit his Byron Bay home. The change was unopposed by the prosecution and was announced by Magistrate Stephen Lee, with the criminal case adjourned to July 1. Catalano, co‑owner of Australian Community Media, appeared via video link and confirmed he could hear the proceedings. He faces eight charges stemming from a March 13 domestic‑violence incident at his St Kilda apartment, including intentional choking, assault, false imprisonment and threats to kill. Police described his wife Stefanie Catalano as “pleading for her life” during the attack. Following his arrest, Catalano was placed on indefinite leave from ACM. His lawyer, Tony Hargreaves, highlighted the bail restriction that previously barred him from interstate travel, saying it “couldn’t go to Byron Bay to see his wife and children,” and argued it was no longer necessary.