The Victorian government’s sale of a historic former psychiatric hospital site in Sunbury to Channel Nine for A$1 million has triggered questions over the valuation, transparency and public interest behind the deal. Reporting by Star Weekly, The Guardian and realestate.com.au has highlighted concerns over the price paid for the 2.6-hectare Jacksons Hill property, which is set to feature in the 2027 season of The Block. The transaction, recorded on the Victorian government’s property sales history website, covers three heritage-listed buildings at the former Sunbury Asylum precinct. At approximately A$38 per square metre, the sale has drawn scrutiny from politicians and community members who want to know whether the state secured the best possible return for publicly owned land. Channel Nine acquired the buildings in September for its renovation reality show, with plans submitted for assessment proposing to turn the historic structures into six residential properties. The project is expected to require extensive restoration, with heritage restrictions and the condition of the existing buildings presenting significant challenges.
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