Developers Apologise For Demolishing AC/DC House In Sydney

Just days after news broke of the demolition of Sydney house considered to be the birthplace of bands such as AC/DC and The Easybeats, developers have issued an apology for the grief it’s caused music fans.

The home, which was located at 4 Burleigh Street in Burwood prior to its demolition late last year, was famed amongst music historians as being the childhood home of the Young brothers – that is, Malcolm, Angus, and George Young – following their migration from Scotland in the early ‘60s.

While George would go on to form the likes of The Easybeats, Angus and Malcolm would later find fame as one of Australia’s most successful rock exports, AC/DC. In fact, the legacy of the address was cemented in 2024 when Angus and Malcolm were depicted in a Claire Foxton-designed mural on the side of 12 Burleigh Street.

However, despite the house being added to the National Trust Register of Historic Houses in 2013, it wasn’t enough for its demolition to be initiated by Burwood Square Pty Ltd following it $5.8 million purchase the previous year.

Now, Burwood Square general manager Leon Kmita has expressed his regret over the demolition, explaining that the house’s history had not been conveyed until after the fact, the Herald Sun reports.

“We regret that the previous long-term owner did not share this vital part of the property’s background with us,” Kmita said. “Learning about this connection after our plans were already underway has shocked us.

“We are genuinely sorry for this oversight.”

Initial reports indicated that Burwood Square – who also purchased the adjoining property at number 2 – would be redeveloping the now-vacant area into a $28.75 million residential site.

However, Kmita now says his team are aiming to salvage materials to as to create a “special space” where fans of AC/DC can “gather to celebrate the band’s enduring legacy”.

“On behalf of the team at Burwood Square, I want to convey our heartfelt regret … we now recognise how deeply this location resonates with the AC/DC community and fans worldwide,” he said. “We feel a strong responsibility to honour AC/DC’s legacy and to make amends to all the fans who hold this band in such high regard.

“While we cannot change the past, we are dedicated to celebrating this significant part of their story,” he added. “To the global fanbase of AC/DC, please know that we hear you, appreciate your deep admiration for this legendary band, and are devoted to making this right.”

While Burwood Square have expressed genuine regret over the demolition, the Burwood Council have instead remained firm that the incident took place in the interest of progress.

“As it is not heritage listed or protected under local or state legislation, and because The National Trust is a community-based, non-government organisation, with no statutory authority, the property does not have enforceable protections,” the Council stated.

“Burwood Council remains committed to finding new ways to celebrate the Young family and the area’s rich musical heritage.”